Currently there are no guaranteed ways to prevent Alzheimer’s, but a large body of evidence-based data highlights certain lifestyle factors that influence brain health. It is estimated that up to 45% of all dementias could be delayed or prevented by addressing these lifestyle factors.
Movement Matters. Evidence-based research demonstrates that people who are more physically active are at a lower risk of dementia and that consistent, moderately challenging, exercise improves cognitive function for people of all ages.
Experts recommend that you choose forms of exercise that are enjoyable. Thirty minutes of moderately intense exercise on most days of the week is a good goal to work towards. An ‘exercise prescription’ ideally incorporates muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week, and daily exercises that promote endurance, mobility, and balance. Most of all it should be fun! When considering an exercise prescription, the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines is a helpful resource: https://csepguidelines.ca/
Manage other chronic, or emergent, health issues in a timely manner. Blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol can all impact cognitive health. By proactively managing these issues using medication and nonmedication approaches such as diet, you can effectively reduce your risk of dementia.
Protect Your Senses. Research demonstrates a connection between sensory loss and cognitive decline. Individuals with hearing and or vision loss have an increased risk of developing cognitive impairments. Preventative measures that protect your ear and eye health, or that immediately address sensory challenges as they arise, are critical to preserving cognitive function.
Challenge the brain with learning, problem-solving, and by being socially connected. Loneliness and social isolation are risk factors for cognitive decline. Community engagement and maintaining nurturing social relationships are critically important for brain health as is consistent, engaging mental stimulation. Imagine your brain is a muscle that requires its own workout, or exercise prescription. Games or puzzles that challenge hearing, vision, memory, or problem-solving faculties can be a playful component of a cognitive-health plan.
Online resources such as Brain HQ offer fun-but-challenging brain exercises.
It’s never too early, or too late, to have an open honest dialogue about supporting cognitive health. The best time to get started is right now! Read more here about additional support available.
Need to speak with someone? We would be happy to take your questions and also outline potential support options for you and your family.
Contact us at intakes@stayathomenursing.com or +1 (888) 558-3603
This is the second in our three-part series on dementia care. In our final post, we’ll discuss how to deal with Dementia.
