How to Lower an Older Adult’s Risk of Alzheimer’s

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According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than five million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. While there’s currently no cure, recent trends in care suggest that eating right, getting regular exercise, and staying mentally active may play key roles in reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. 

 

Promote a Brain-Healthy Lifestyle

At least six brain-healthy lifestyle components are considered important when it comes to reducing Alzheimer’s disease risk: regular exercise, high-quality sleep, mental stimulation, diet, stress management, and an active social life. In general, the more physically and mentally active people are—especially individuals ranging in age from 55 to 75—the better their odds are of staying mentally vital with age. A brain-healthy lifestyle may include: 

  • Light to moderate exercise (based on physical capabilities)
  • Dietary adjustments (to include an age-appropriate level of nutrients)
  • Memory exercises (asking someone to recall recently acquired information)
  • Eating smaller meals throughout the day (rather than three larger meals)
  • Drinking more tea (especially green tea)
  • Taking vitamin supplements (including fish oil and vitamin D)
  • Bedtime rituals (warm baths, light stretches, etc.)

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the many health conditions older adults are susceptible to. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality home care service. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

 

Maintain Balance & Coordination

Research suggests head injuries may be a contributing factor to Alzheimer’s disease in some people. One way to reduce the risk of head injuries from falls is to increase balance and coordination abilities through exercises designed to specifically strengthen core muscle groups. This can be achieved with light exercises, using a balance ball, or even taking up yoga or similar activities. 

Seniors who need help exercising can benefit from professional in-home care. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Reston families can trust. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. 

 

Ensure Overall Health & Wellness

Aside from genetic factors that may increase the odds of developing the disease, there are very few indicators that someone may get Alzheimer’s. However, maintaining an active brain-healthy lifestyle, including everything from tackling daily crosswords to taking walks, may prevent or, in some cases, reverse the deterioration of all-important brain cells and ensure overall health and wellness. 

In Reston, elderly home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today to learn more about our high-quality home care services.