Serene City Hospital Center

Steps for Healthy Aging and Avoiding Alzheimer's

IN SENIORS' HEALTH

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Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia among older people. It's a brain disorder that can seriously affect your ability to carry out daily activities. Scientists don't yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer's disease, and they suggest that there probably isn't one single cause, but several factors that affect each person differently. Scientists conclude that taking care of your health now may contribute to the quality of the later parts of your life and may reduce your likelihood of developing Alzheimer's. Researchers have found evidence that an array of healthful lifestyle elements involving diet and nutrition, cholesterol levels, body weight, exercise, blood pressure and hypertension, intellectual stimulation, and social contact may help prevent or delay Alzheimer's. The earlier you start these good habits, the better your chances of realizing the full benefits later. Here's information to help you make healthy choices about your lifestyle and ward off Alzheimer's. Lifestyle Habits to Prevent or Delay Alzheimer's Research seems to indicate that if you have a history of conditions related to your blood circulatory system that may cause heart disease and stroke, such as high cholesterol and blood pressure, you may also be at increased risk of developing Alzheimer's. The same risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, may put you at risk for Alzheimer's. Scientists say that by knowing and managing your numbers—blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, as well as your body weight—you will be setting the stage for healthier aging and possibly decreasing your risk for Alzheimer's. In addition, exercise will help you maintain healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and body weight. Exercise regularly. Diet and Nutrition Are Important Studies have discovered an association between fat consumption at a relatively early age and the later development of Alzheimer's disease. Middle-aged people should eat a diet that's low fat and high in antioxidants, consisting primarily of lean meats, such as fish and poultry, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Recent studies have indicated that foods rich in Vitamin E provide a boost to the immune system and may reduce your risk of heart disease and Alzheimer's. Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E and can be easily added to your diet. One handful of almonds provides half of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)

Alzheimer's Caregivers: Take Care of You
Are you looking after someone who has Alzheimer's? If so, the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) reminds you that the best thing you can do for that person is to take care of yourself. If your physical, mental, and emotional reserves become depleted, the quality of the care you can give diminishes. There are various simple things you can do to help maintain balance in your life, relieve the stress, and keep things in perspective. For example, find someone you can tell your experiences to regularly. Releasing your thoughts and feelings in this way will help keep you from feeling isolated and is good for your emotional health. Here are some other suggestions to help you stay healthy and do your best.
  • Accept help from others.
  • Eat nutritious and balanced meals.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Get screened for stress and depression.
  • See your physician regularly.
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