Preventing Alzheimer’s & Wandering

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of what is known as dementia, a general term for memory loss and other intellectual abilities. Alzheimer’s accounts for 50-80% of dementia cases. It is not a normal part of aging and there is some evidence that preventative measures can be taken to reduce the chances, stave off the disease or increase quality of life if it does manifest. And while we can’t fix how old we are (wouldn’t that be great?) we can do a few things to make our brains and ourselves, a little bit better.

The Alzheimer’s Association has a few tips and Helpguide.org has what they’ve named The Six Pillars Of A Brain Healthy Lifestyle.

Physical exercise:

According to the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, physical exercise may reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by 50 percent.

Healthy diet:

A good diet, low in saturated and trans fats and high in omega-3 fats is a good way to keep your brain healthy. A diet rich in fruits and veggies and low on red meat, eaten in 4-6 smaller meals rather than three larger meals is also recommended.

Mental stimulation:

Keep that brain active and curious. Learn new things, maintain interactions with friends and family and continually challenge your mind with activities like cross-word puzzles or learning a new language and keep those neurons firing.

Get some sleep:

Keeping to a regular sleep schedule, without interruption, and for at least 7-8 hours will keep your brain healthy. Sleep deprivation impairs your ability to think and problem solve.

Stress management:

Stress can take a real toll on the brain, leading to actual shrinkage in the memory area, hampering nerve cell growth and increasing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Learn how to relax and keep it under control.

Keep an active social life:

We are social creatures and need interaction. Studies show the more connected humans are the better we fare with memory and cognition tests. Staying social may decrease the chances of getting Alzheimer’s and frankly, it’s more fun than sitting along watching reality TV.

All of these tips make for a happier and healthier life and if they also help keep Alzheimer’s disease out of your life that’s the cherry on the top.