Scientists don’t fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s disease. For anyone who’s ever known a person with this destructive brain disorder, it’s a painful journey to witness, and a path that no one would wish for.
Nearly 6 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common type of dementia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In the early stages, Alzheimer’s impacts memory and thinking; in time, it can impact mood and judgement, limit a person’s mobility and impede them from completing even the most basic tasks to care for themselves. This neurological condition is most common in people 65 and older, according to the National Institute on Aging. After age 65, the risk for developing the disease doubles every five years.
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a time when people wear purple—which is the official color of the Alzheimer’s movement, and share their personal stories about Alzheimer’s, a disease that has touched nearly everyone, it seems. It’s also a time to learn about positive lifestyle changes you can make to boost your own brain health. Again, scientists still don’t know the roots of Alzheimer’s. But don’t let that stop you from putting your best brain forward, and doing everything you can to stay healthy and witty for all your live-long days. Here are some ways to get started.
- Listen to your heart. The Mayo Clinic says that dementia and heart disease may share a number of risk factors. That means that when you’re taking action to protect your heart, you may also be protecting your brain. Heart-healthy tips include exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking and managing your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar. If you have high cholesterol and/or blood pressure and/or diabetes, talk to your doctor about how to best keep those conditions in check.
- Minimize your drinking. Researchers have found that heavy drinking and hard alcohol consumption can contribute to a faster decline in Alzheimer’s patients. If you choose to drink alcohol, limit yourself to the guidelines of one drink per day for women or two for men.
- Use it or lose it. Challenging your brain can keep you on your toes, according to Harvard University. When your brain is active, it stimulates the nerve cells, and that’s a good thing! Make brainy activities a habit: take a class, learn a new language, complete puzzles, play games, write, read and converse with friends and strangers, alike, to keep those juices flowing.
- Protect your noggin. Injuries to the head can cause swelling, bruising and bleeding in the brain, which could lead to some serious cognitive problems, as well as physical limitations. Keep your head safe by using protective gear, such as bike and motorcycle helmets and seatbelts. And avoid risky behavior that could result in a head injury.
- Take your social life seriously. Friends are good for your brain health! Research shows that people who are lonely are significantly more likely to get dementia. So laugh it up and live it up with old friends, and challenge yourself to continue making new ones, no matter your age.
- Feed your brain. While there’s no conclusive evidence that certain foods will actually prevent neurological diseases, the research does show that a healthy diet can help your brain function at its best. Northwestern Medicine recommends the following foods for brain health: salmon, eggs, blueberries, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, coffee, nuts and dark chocolate.
- Rest up. Your brain needs a break. And yet, according to the CDC, one-third of American adults report that they don’t get enough sleep. That can have an impact on mood, increase your risk for depression and a number of chronic health conditions, and lead to vehicle crashes and injuries. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep a night and your brain — and body — will thank you.
- Take care of your overall health. Your brain is impacted by your overall health — both mental and physical. So make sure that you’re feeling and functioning your best. To do that, make it a priority to manage your health conditions; establish a good relationship with a primary care provider and schedule regular physical exams; take care of your mental health; visit the eye doctor and dentist regularly; and check in with yourself to see how you’re doing. If you notice changes in your mood or energy level, or if you’re finding that you’re not enjoying activities you once loved, talk to your doctor. He or she can help you get back on track and feel your best, from head to toe.
