Announcement
April 10, 2024
Each September, Alzheimer’s Disease International launches their World Alzheimer’s Month campaign to bring awareness to this mysterious, debilitating disease. Informing the community and raising awareness will help increase quality of life for Alzheimer’s patients everywhere.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disease that impairs cognitive abilities, memory, and behavior. Treatments exist to lessen the severity of symptoms, but there is currently no cure. Despite being the cause of 50-60% of dementia cases, it is poorly understood by researchers.
Who is affected by Alzheimer’s?
The onset of Alzheimer’s is typically after 65 years of age. More rarely, people as young as 30 years old can be diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Women are at a higher risk than men. Alzheimer’s is currently the seventh leading cause of death in the United States and costs over $1 trillion annually.
There are approximately 15.7 million adult caregivers for Alzheimer’s or dementia patients in the United States. Caregivers assist patients in completing basic daily tasks such as getting dressed and bathing.
How can I reduce my risk?
A healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s, though it will not eliminate the risk as Alzheimer’s has genetic and environmental risk factors as well. Consuming brain-healthy foods, such as foods high in antioxidants, and avoiding inflammatory, highly processed foods may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Mental exercise, such as engaging in social activities or solving puzzles, helps the brain stay stimulated and challenged. Studies have suggested that adequate sleep, physical exercise, and not smoking can all reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Striving for good brain health can make a difference in the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Learn more about World Alzheimer’s Month here.
