What’s the best way to prevent Alzheimer’s from occurring? While there’s no definitive answer to this, new research points to another piece of evidence that there are things that we can do to prevent Alzheimer’s from occurring. These actions include a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and activities that keep the brain learning and active.
The study found that people who lived “healthy lifestyles” by following the three steps outlined above tended to live longer lives, with less of a chance of developing dementia. Women who lived healthier had an extra 1.5 years of dementia free life, while men had 0.7 extra years. This might not seem like a lot, but it was enough to be statistically valid and an indicator that there is a direct correlation between healthy living and avoiding Alzheimer’s.
This research was conducted by researchers from the Rush Institute of Healthy Aging in Chicago, Illinois. They published their findings in the journal, BMJ. Although the study itself doesn’t prove that healthy practices will definitely leave to a dementia free life, it makes a very convincing case–and adds to the already extensive belief that this is the case.
This new study confirms what doctors have been observing anecdotally for years. Seeing that there is scientific evidence to confirm that there are things that can be done to reduce your risk of having Alzheimer’s as you age is reassuring, and another piece of evidence to support listening to the advice of what doctors give us. Eating right, staying mentally active, and getting physical exercise might not be a silver bullet to prevent dementia and other issues as we age, but all three of these things can go a long way toward keeping us healthy as we get older. Finding a combination of these things that work for you is important so that you can continue these healthy habits for extended periods of time.
Prevention is the best way to approach Alzheimer’s disease because as of this moment, there is no cure for the disease. Once someone has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, there are things that can be done to slow its spread, but ultimately, the disease will lead to decline and the person with it will pass away. So, if you or a loved one already have this diagnosis, the emphasis for treatment should be on improving the quality of life experienced as much as possible. An Alzheimer’s diagnosis is a big thing, but it doesn’t mean that there’s no hope ahead.
There’s support out there. Starting with family and friends you trust is a good beginning, but it’s not always enough. Depending on your family’s situation or the stage of dementia you are facing, more intensive and professional care might be needed.
This is where in-home care can be a huge benefit. Studies indicate that when people age in a place that they’re familiar with, cognitive decline tends to move a little bit more slowly. In-home care allows this to happen all while ensuring that your loved one has access to high quality care.
We’re here to talk if you’d like to learn more.
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