June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. More than 55 million people are living with some form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease being the most common type. Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disease which affects the parts of the brain that control memory, thought and language.

We encourage you this June and always to take charge of your brain health by practicing these ten healthy habits that can help prevent Alzheimer’s and promote overall brain health.

1. Regular Physical Exercise – Engage in regular physical activity like walking, swimming, or cycling to boost brain health and improve cardiovascular function.

2. Healthy Diet – Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The Mediterranean diet, which includes fish, nuts, and olive oil, is particularly beneficial for brain health.

3. Mental Stimulation – Keep your brain active with activities such as reading, puzzles, playing musical instruments, or learning new skills. This helps build cognitive reserve.

4. Quality Sleep – Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Good sleep is essential for memory consolidation and brain function.

5. Social Engagement – Maintain strong social connections and engage in social activities to reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

6. Stress Management – Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Chronic stress can negatively impact brain health.

7. Regular Health Check-ups – Monitor and manage chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, which can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.

8. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol – Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption to protect your brain from damage.

9. Stay Mentally Active – Engage in lifelong learning and continuous education to keep your brain sharp.

10. Protect Your Head – Prevent head injuries by wearing helmets when cycling, using seat belts in cars, and making your home fall-proof, especially as you age.

These activities and many more can aide in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other Dementia. Visit Alzheimer’s Association and learn more on what you can do to help end the fight against Alzheimer’s.

https://www.alz.org/help-support/brain_health/10-healthy-habits-for-your-brain

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Lorraine Arkaifie, MSN, AGPCNP-BC

Founder & Director of Services at Adult Alternative Home Care

After completing nursing school in 2009, she worked as a Registered Nurse with the elderly in nursing homes, hospitals and in their homes. She went on to complete advance nurse training with a focus in Geriatrics. As she gained more clinical experience, she was encouraged to pursue her dreams of establishing a home care organization that will provide excellent services to members of her community. With over ten years clinical knowledge, she has perfected the skills to establish rapport and support of the frail and elderly we serve. She loves what she does and will love to help you or your loved ones get the care and support they need.

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