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How much do you know about Alzheimer’s disease?  And are you doing everything you can to prevent it?  June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and at Fountain Hills Medical Center we want to call attention to this memory impairment disease that is frighteningly common.

Alzheimer’s affects 1 in 9 people over the age of 65, and about 1 in 3 people over the age of 85. Those statistics are not very encouraging, but here’s one that is: 1 in 3 cases of Alzheimer’s is preventable.

Here are a few things you can put into practice right now:

1. Sit back and relax

   Chronic stress can take a big toll on your immune cells, and immune cells are key to fighting dementia. In particular, elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol were shown to be associated with the development of memory impairment. The takeaway? Do what you need to do now to chill out.

2. Challenge yourself mentally

   Tasking your brain with learning new skills or solving word or math puzzles just might help prevent Alzheimer’s. Studies have indicated that by strengthening connections in your brain, you can keep your mind working better, longer.

3. Keep your blood pressure in check

   In 2013 Johns Hopkins researchers found that older adults with elevated blood pressure were more likely to have biomarkers for Alzheimer’s in their spinal fluid. A second study found that those adults with great variations in blood pressure levels were more likely to develop dementia. In short – exercise, eat well, watch your sodium intake, and quit smoking.

4. And while we’re on the topic of smoking…

   Really, you just shouldn’t. Research has repeatedly shown that smoking wreaks havoc on your brain. In fact, over 30 studies have concluded that current smokers are 30% more likely to develop general dementia, and 40% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s.

5. Weight matters

   Specifically, belly weight is shown to be the most impactful. Those with a high BMI and central obesity (known by most as belly fat) increase their risk for dementia by 3.5 times. Even those with BMIs that are in normal range, but still have a larger midsection, are about twice as likely to develop dementia. And on a related note, one study found that women who maintain physical fitness in middle age were 90% less likely to develop dementia decades later.

6. Go Mediterranean

   It seems like we hear people touting the benefits of this diet daily, and it’s worth the hype. Eating a diet consisting mainly of produce, fish, whole grains, legumes, and olive oil has been shown to prevent of slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.

7. Protect your head

   Head injury is the third most common cause of dementia. And those with a history of moderate head trauma are 2.3 times more likely to develop dementia. Simple steps like wearing a seat belt, wearing a helmet while biking, preventing falls, and driving safely (not under the influence of substances, and not using your phone while driving) are important to protect your brain and its functioning.

Not all cases of Alzheimer’s disease are preventable, but following the advice we provide can reduce your risk and allow you to live a healthier life. For memory care in Fountain Hills, we encourage you to talk with your medical professional at Fountain Hills Medical Center. Whether you have concerns about your memory, a loved one’s memory, or just simply want more information on Alzheimer’s disease in Arizona, let us help. As your source for expert care that’s close to home, we’re ready to help with all of your medical needs and concerns.

Resources:

• Dshs.texas.gov 
• Bbc.com
• Theconversation.com
• Webmd
• Hopkinsmedicine.org
• Alzdiscovery.org
• Healthharvard.edu