NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Juliette Bradley with the Alzheimer's Association notes that those who have family history of dementia should begin now trying to improve their overall health to reduce their risk.
"Your decisions really have a lot to do with your cognitive health," Bradley said. "When we say take your body to the gym, we also say take your brain to the gym. There are many things that you can do to reduce your risks of getting dementia."
Cutting out things like cookies, chips, soda and other junk foods can not only impact your waistline but your brain health as well. Research shows that diets high in ultra-processed foods have a 28% faster decline in cognitive scores. It's also important to prevent seasonal illness.
"There is strong research that says getting a flu shot is associated with a 40% decrease in the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease over the next four years. According to some research from the University of Texas, even just one single flu vaccination can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's by 17%."
Physical exercise helps to maintain good blood flow to the brain and can reduce certain risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease, it's also important to get out and be social for both people with dementia and those who care for them.
"You have to find ways to get out of the house," Bradley said. "For the caregiver, that means, you need to find some respite help. Bring someone in to stay with your loved one so you can get outside. Get some sunshine. Meet somebody for lunch, go to a movie, whatever it may be. Go to the library. Get involved in a faith group. For the person who has dementia, the Alzheimer's Association has social engagement activities for individuals who have Alzheimer's Disease. Those are extremely important to do."
If you have questions or need help, start by logging on to alz.org. They have resources and numbers to call there, no matter what time it is.
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