Alzheimer’s doesn’t occur as a result of the normal aging process. However, the chances of developing the disease increase as adults become older. People can’t help getting older, but there are a number of causes and risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s that seniors have the ability to address, and family members can take an active role in encouraging their aging loved ones to stay healthy.
Cardiovascular Disease
Neurons and the biological processes that occur in the brain rely on the oxygen and nutrients derived from blood. When seniors develop heart or vascular disease issues, blood flow is slowed or prevented from entering the brain, which encourages the development of Alzheimer’s.
Older adults can keep their cardiovascular systems working at optimal levels by maintaining healthy blood pressure. They must also stay active, which strengthens the heart and increases blood circulation. A healthy diet of lean meats, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and healthy oils fuels the body without contributing to plaque formation.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, help is just a phone call away. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Assisting Hands Home Care is a leading in-home care provider for Alzheimer’s Care. Reston Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.
Diabetes
Neurons need glucose to function. However, when a senior has diabetes, this nutrient can no longer enter the cells. If left untreated, high blood sugar causes damage to organs, blood vessels, and the brain. On the other hand, if seniors have hypoglycemia from overtreatment or hypotension, the brain is deprived of glucose and nutrient-rich blood. When neurons and biological processes don’t function normally, the chance of developing an abundance of harmful proteins and subsequent Alzheimer’s is greater.
Head Injuries
Weakened musculoskeletal systems, along with certain medications, impaired vision, and illness, all contribute to the high rate of falls among older adults. Seniors who experience head injuries from falls, automotive collisions, or any other type of accident are at greater risk for developing Alzheimer’s. Head injuries can impede blood flow to certain areas in the brain and permanently damage neurons or neuronal pathways.
Aging adults who need help handling mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of highly trained professional caregivers. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Reston, VA, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Obesity
Seniors carrying excess weight put greater stress on their cardiovascular systems and are more likely to have high cholesterol and high blood pressure. The heart cannot pump as effectively to efficiently deliver blood to the brain. Plaques are liable to develop in the blood vessels, which also interferes with blood flow. Thus, the brain doesn’t receive the nutrients needed to remain healthy.
Family History
Older adults with family histories of Alzheimer’s are more apt to develop the disorder themselves. Bad habits transferred from one generation to the next may influence the risk. The probability increases dramatically if more than one family member has a history of Alzheimer’s. Research shows the APOE e4 gene also increases the risk of Alzheimer’s. Having one or more copies of the gene doesn’t guarantee Alzheimer’s development, but having copies of the gene and a family history of the disease does increase the potential.
If you’re the primary caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, you don’t have to go through it alone. Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to handle. If you’re looking for professional home care service, Reston Assisting Hands Home Care provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 703-556-8983 to schedule a free in-home consultation.
