Degeneration of brain health, memory health, Alzheimer’s, or dementia are common health problems elderly people face. Ageing is inevitable, but losing one’s cognitive ability does not have to be a mandatory part of ageing.
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, several lifestyle changes can significantly improve brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. As we hit the 50th mark, one must get more conscious and attentive toward their health. Certain dietary and lifestyle choices can make a significant difference.
Ways to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
Stay Mentally Stimulated: One must challenge one’s brain with new activities and experiences. Learn a new language, take up a new hobby, play brain games, or read books on diverse topics. The more one keeps one’s mind engaged, the better it will function.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: One must have a diet that nourishes the brain. The best thing to do is to have a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit unhealthy fats, processed foods, and added sugar, which can contribute to cognitive decline.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can damage brain cells and impair cognitive function. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to manage stress and improve brain health.
Get Enough Sleep: When we sleep, our brain clears toxins and consolidates memories. One must aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to keep their brain sharp and functioning at its best.
Engage in Regular Exercise: Physical activity isn’t just good for our body; it is essential for our brain, too. One must aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week.
Manage Chronic Conditions: Certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. By managing these conditions effectively, one can significantly reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Stay Socially Connected: Social interaction is essential for brain health. One must spend time with loved ones, join clubs or groups, and participate in activities that allow an individual to connect.
Apart from this, there are a few lifestyle tips that one should incorporate to keep the brain healthy and increase longevity.
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Quit smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for cognitive decline. Quitting smoking is one of the best things one can do to keep the brain healthy.
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Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can damage brain cells and impair cognitive function. One must drink alcohol in moderation or avoid it altogether.
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Get regular medical check-ups: One must consult a doctor for regular checkups and discuss risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.
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Stay positive: Lastly, having a positive attitude can benefit our mental and physical health.
Incorporating these strategies into one’s life, especially after 50, can significantly improve one’s brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Remember, it’s never too late to start taking care of our brain.
Further, in the case of the elderly living alone, the chances of developing forgetfulness are high. Therefore, one must ensure that elderly parents are not left alone, as this can be dangerous for their mental health. Keeping an attendant with our parents can help them in many ways and prevent them from developing any type of health issues, especially disorders related to the brain. To enquire about attendant services, CLICK HERE.
