Approximately 50 million people worldwide have dementia, and nearly half of all residents in senior care communities have Alzheimer’s disease or another form of cognitive impairment. Luckily, there are steps you can take to lower your risk, which is crucial if you have diabetes, high cholesterol, or a history of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia in your family. Below are a few ways to help stave off cognitive decline.
How Can You Lower Your Chances of Dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease?
1. Exercise
Regular physical activity can reduce a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by up to 50 percent. Exercise can also slow cognitive deterioration in people who already require senior care or show signs of dementia. The American Heart Association recommends engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate, heart-pumping physical activity each week.
2. Eat Right
Research suggests that following a heart-healthy diet filled with fresh fruits, leafy greens, whole grains, lean meats, and minimal amounts of sugar can reduce a person’s risk of Alzheimer’s disease. There are also specific foods, such as salmon and trout, that are rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to boost brain health.
3. Keep Your Mind Active
Mental stimulation helps keep the mind sharp both in young, healthy individuals and elderly people in senior care. Brain-challenging activities such as crossword puzzles, learning a new language, or practicing a musical instrument are both entertaining, and can benefit your brain health. Evidence also suggests that maintaining strong social networks and avoiding isolation can help ward off stress, depression, and cognitive decline.
To learn more about how to reduce your risk of dementia, or if you’re a caretaker looking for senior care services for a loved one, contact Sally’s Place in Swanzey, NH. The compassionate, fully trained staff at this adult daycare center provides a wide range of stimulating activities to keep older minds active, including puzzles, crafts, knitting, and more. They also offer flexible schedules designed to accommodate individual needs, including drop-in periods as short as an hour. Visit their website to schedule a tour, or call (603) 338-0073 to speak with a helpful staff member today.
