11/01/2021
The Truth About Aging and Dementia
As we age, our brains change, but Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are not an inevitable part of aging. In fact, up to 40% of dementia cases may be prevented or delayed. It helps to understand what’s normal and what’s not when it comes to brain health.
Normal brain aging may mean slower processing speeds and more trouble multitasking, but routine memory, skills, and knowledge are stable and may even improve with age. It’s normal to occasionally forget recent events such as where you put your keys or the name of the person you just met.
When It Might Be Lewy Body Dementia
In the United States, 6.2 million people aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia. People with dementia have symptoms of cognitive decline that interfere with daily life—including disruptions in language, memory, attention, recognition, problem solving, and decision-making. Signs to watch for include:
• Not being able to complete tasks without help.
• Trouble naming items or close family members.
• Forgetting the function of items.
• Repeating questions.
• Taking much longer to complete normal tasks.
• Misplacing items often.
• Being unable to retrace steps and getting lost.
7 Ways to Help Maintain Your Brain Health
Studies show that healthy behaviors, which can prevent some kinds of cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease may also reduce your risk for cognitive decline. Although age, genetics, and family history can’t be changed by addressing risk factors, this may prevent or delay up to 40% of dementia cases.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Quit smoking. Quitting smoking now may help maintain brain health and can reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, lung disease, and other smoking-related illnesses. Free Quitline: 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669
2. Maintain a healthy blood pressure level. Tens of millions of American adults have high blood pressure, and many do not have it under control. Learn the facts.
3. Be physically active. CDC studies show physical activity can improve thinking, reduce risk of depression and anxiety, and help you sleep better. Here are tips to help you get started.
4. Maintain a healthy weight. Healthy weight isn’t about short-term dietary changes. Instead, it’s about a lifestyle that includes healthy eating and regular physical activity.
5. Get enough sleep. A third of American adult’s report that they usually get less sleep than the recommended amount. How much sleep do you need? It depends on your age.
6. Stay engaged. There are many ways for older adults to get involved in their community.
7. Manage blood sugar. Learn how to manage your blood sugar especially if you have diabetes.
