Preventing Alzheimer’s at Any Age

An exciting announcement was made at the 2014 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference: Over the past 40 years, Alzheimer’s and dementia rates have steadily declined in the U.S. In fact, an American adult age 60 and older today has a 44% less chance of getting Alzheimer’s when compared with a U.S. senior citizen 30 years ago. Researchers largely attribute this reduction to improved cardiovascular risk factors and better health and wellness education among senior citizens.

While this is encouraging news, Alzheimer’s remains a devastating disease that affects over 5 million people in the U.S. The majority of these patients are over the age of 65 however; Alzheimer’s and dementia can strike at younger ages as well. Even though the disease is incurable, research has begun to shed light on ways to help prevent Alzheimer’s at any age.

As personal care assistants, it’s vitally important to monitor our senior home care patients for signs of Alzheimer’s. Taking steps to prevent this disease is also key, especially for those over the age of 65. Here are some ways you can help your home care patient’s mind stay sharp and adopt a lifestyle that helps prevent Alzheimer’s disease:

• Eat Your Fruits & Veggies: Including more fruits and vegetables in your diet is a great way to improve your brain health.
• Munch on Berries: The high levels of biologically active components in berries help fight memory impairment associated with beta-amyloid plaques in the brain.
• Sip on Wine: Minerals in grape skins help protect brain cells from stress that can lead to Alzheimer’s. Grape juice makes for a great nonalcoholic substitute.
• Stay Social: Studies have shown that an active social life and strong network of friends may help prevent Alzheimer’s.

Unfortunately, there is no sure way to prevent Alzheimer’s. However, it is never too early to take steps to lessen your chances of getting this disease. As a Minneapolis home care agency, Best Home Care has helped hundreds of at home care patients live better more independent lives. Contact us to learn more about Alzheimer home care options and ways to prevent this disease.