This September, we are observing the third annual World Alzheimer’s Month, an observance designed to raise awareness and challenge stigma surrounding this illness on a global scale. Alzheimer’s disease affects an estimated 5.2 million Americans and is the leading cause of dementia in older adults. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are ways you may be able to reduce the risk of developing dementia by keeping your brain healthy.
As we age, it becomes increasingly important to take care of our health, physically and mentally. Much like our bodies, our brains lose strength and stamina as we grow older, especially if they’re not “exercised” properly. In order to stay in shape mentally, it’s important to adopt a brain-healthy lifestyle.
Here are four easy ways to change your lifestyle that will help keep your brain healthy:
Stay Physically Active
Aerobic exercise like walking, biking, jogging and yoga helps get the body moving and your heart pumping. These types of exercise are important for maintaining good blood flow to your brain, which helps with the creation of new brain cells.
Stay Mentally Active
An active brain is a healthy brain! Research suggests that mental activity increases the brain’s vitality and builds up brain cells. Reading, writing, crossword puzzles, adult education courses and plays are all excellent options for keeping you and your brain engaged and curious.
Socialize
Social activity like sports, clubs, traveling, or simply eating a meal with a friend help reduce stress levels and make mental activity more enjoyable.
Eat Brain-Healthy Foods
A diet high in fat and cholesterol can lead to heart attacks and strokes, which inevitably have a negative impact on both the brain and the rest of the body. To promote both brain and overall health, cut down on fats and cholesterol and replace them with dark fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants.
If you are interested in raising awareness and funding for research to help end Alzheimer’s, please join team CMSS at the Walk to End Alzhiemers on Sunday, September 28 at Montrose Harbor. More information can be found here.
What are you doing to keep your brain healthy and active during this World Alzheimer’s Month?
Alyssa Conrardy
Marketing & Communications
Skilled Nursing for Dementia
Chicago Senior Services
