There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease at this time. It is estimated that fully one-half of those over the age of 85 have some form of dementia, but there are preventative measures that strengthen the brain against the disease. These precautions make the mind more resilient to Alzheimer's onset.
1. Control blood sugar
Some researchers have labeled Alzheimer's a third type of diabetes. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reports that people with higher than normal blood sugar, even without the official label of diabetes, are at a higher risk for dementia. The theory behind this reports a link between insulin resistance and brain cells. Blood sugar spikes can often be controlled by losing weight and brisk walking after meals.2. Learn to play a musical instrument
Brenda Hanna-Pladdy, an Emory neuropsychologist, reports research that confirms extensive musical training for any person gives a boost in cognitive function for life. This study included instrumentalists, not vocalists. She posits that playing an instrument provides brain flexibility as people age.3. Change routines
As we age, we tend to fall into the same rut of existence every day, because it is comfortable. If retired, volunteer for various organizations, and take a different route to get to destinations every so often. The routing and the need to learn varied routines keep the brain honed to respond to varied stimuli. 4. Take a class or learn a language Studying is for the brain what exercise is for the body. At first, rewards will seem small and the course frustrating if you haven't done classwork or learned new sentence structures for awhile. Soon you will see progress.5. Balance yourself
Falls related to poor balance are a major cause of death and injury for older people. Head injuries like concussions can increase the risk of Alzheimer's onset. Join a yoga class or exercise with balance disks or balls.6. Build some muscle!
Combining strength training with brisk aerobics can cut risks of dementia in half, as well as keeping a strong structure resistant to bone fractures. Strength training also lowers blood pressure in middle-aged, hypertensive men, an important component in resisting Alzheimer's disease.7. Coffee and tea are good for you
These are two habits worth keeping. Drinking green tea regularly boosts memory and cognitive alertness. Coffee works similarly, though it is not so powerful as tea.8. Minimize restaurant foods
Although a good dinner out is always fun, too many can come with a price. Most American restaurants serve whopping helpings loaded with salt, sugar, and fats. Just say no for brain and body health.9. Stop stress
Put fun first. Make joyful leisure activities just as important as work that needs to be done. This is a good way to put anxiety and stress into perspective.10. Socialize
Human beings are not meant to isolate. Keep your social network strong by making new friends via volunteer work, social media or even group classes in subjects you enjoy.Author Bio Joseph Smith Currently working as a specialist caregiver for Alzheimer's and dementia, Joseph has worked in the healthcare industry for over 4 years. Joseph Smith began his career working as a caregiver with Home Care Assistance of Colorado Springs & El Paso County two years ago.
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