By Karla Sullivan
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 50-80 % of dementia is diagnosed as Alzheimer’s. More than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s today. And it not a normal part of the aging process. Alzheimer’s has been diagnosed in those in their 40’s and 50’s. It is estimated that more than 200,000 people have early onset of the disease. And one in three seniors will die with Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disorder. Symptoms consist of memory loss, challenges in problem solving, general confusion, trouble understanding spatial relationships, speaking, poor judgment, and depression. Those with advanced Alzheimer’s may need help with the basics that include bathing, dressing, eating and eventually being bed-ridden.
Many scientists believe that changes in the brain can begin as early as 20 years prior to symptoms developing. Multiple problems can lead to a positive diagnosis of the disease. Individuals that have a parent, brother or sister with Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop the disease. Approximately, two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women.
Researchers have not found a cure for Alzheimer’s but lifestyle choice may be able to prevent or delay symptoms of Alzheimer’s. The American Academy of Neurology recently completed a study on delaying the effects of Alzheimer’s and found that Vitamin E showed a reduction in the rate of cognitive decline.
Living a brain healthy lifestyle is key to possibly reducing the risks of any type of dementia with the exception of the genetic, component which is out of our control.
Exercise
· Physical exercise will increase oxygen to your brain and reduce the risk of memory loss.
· A short bike ride will help release stress.
· Increasing your heart rate will give you more energy.
Sleep
· Necessary for concentration and problem solving.
· Set a regular bed-time.
· Wake up the same time every day.
· Spend time outside in the sunlight.
· Read a book by a soft light prior to falling asleep.
· Listen to music.
Laughter
· Actually activates centers of the healthy brain.
· It can strengthen the immune system.
Healthy Eating
· Seafood and omega-3.
· Broccoli, spinach, bananas, apricots, fresh grapes, berries and watermelon.
Stress is one of the most damaging conditions to the brain especially chronic stress, which for many is difficult to control. It kills brain cells and damages the hippocampus region where memory exists. More and more studies suggestion that meditation works at improving cognitive skills as well as depression and even diabetes. Studies have shown that meditation increases the thickness of the cerebral cortex, encouraging better memory.
It has been difficult to obtain private health insurance for those who have been diagnosed with a younger onset of Alzheimer’s in the past though now the federal government will provide premium subsides to low or moderate income individuals to help purchase insurance as well as subsides to businesses that provide health insurance coverage to retirees aged 55 to 64 according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
But regardless of benefits, the cost of any illness can be astronomical. Start early at living a better life now with exercise, healthy sleep, stress management, and a well-balanced diet.
