While there are no definitive preventions for Alzheimer’s disease, studies have shown that everyone can take action against the disease by making certain lifestyle changes.

What is Alzheimer’s?

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that occurs when nerve cells in the brain die. It slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. Alzheimer’s can have a variety of risk factors including age, genetics, lifestyle and coexisting medical conditions. While some risk factors such as age or genes cannot be changed, other risk factors such as high blood pressure and lack of exercise usually can be detected early and changed to help reduce risk. The best thing you can do for yourself early on is to make healthy lifestyle changes!

Again, it is never too late to make changes that can help your brain health. Some of these changes are:

1. Eating a healthy and balanced diet that combines whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins. Limit how much sugar and cholesterol you eat, as these can increase your risk of cognitive decline.
2. Staying physically active through exercise. This can be as simple as walking everyday, bicycling or even swimming.
3. Limiting alcohol consumption and smoking.
4. Getting enough sleep! Sleep helps reduce the buildup of proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease. It also helps you feel better and keeps your immune system healthy.
5. Managing your overall health and wellness. It’s important to take care of other conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and depression.
6. Socializing with friends and family.

References
https://mybrainguide.org/alzheimers-prevention-keep-your-brain-healthy/
https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/research_progress/prevention
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-alzheimers-disease

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Elizabeth, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Adult Alternative Home Care today. (888) 664-1769

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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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