Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that slowly affects memory, slows down thinking ability, and may cause memory loss. This can affect the ability to engage in conversations and respond to the environment. Alzheimer's may affect senior citizens above 65 years. It affects the brain, memory, and speech. Individuals with this condition may also face challenges in living a quality life and functioning independently.
Latest Insights on Alzheimer's Disease
For many years, brain researchers focused on tangled tau fibers and amyloid plaques as the leading causes of Alzheimer's. Today, researchers continue to reveal new insights about this disease. They are now focusing on unveiling other potential causes of impaired memory as well as reduced brain function.
The 2022 conference held by the Alzheimer's Association International shows researchers highlighted several clinical trials that address different aspects of Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's Intellectual, Social and Physical Lifestyle
While researchers have yet to find the cure for Alzheimer's, they have highlighted an active and healthy lifestyle that patients can adopt to decrease the risk of developing a progressive neurological disorder. Applying lifestyle changes can also add value to seniors' life and help them live a quality life.
In fact, a new study shows that seniors who practiced the lifestyle changes below experienced benefits.
- Leisure activities such as clubs, classes, as well as sports, help protect the brain from Alzheimer's disease and reduce dementia risk.
- Reduce blood sugar levels to help prevent heart, kidney, and eye damage.
- Social, physical, and intellectual activities can fight off cognitive decline and dementia.
- Keeping blood pressure within a healthy range minimizes or prevents strain on the heart and kidneys.
- Eating a healthy and balanced diet with fruits and vegetables prevents cardiovascular disease.
- Maintaining body weight can reduce the burden on the heart, blood vessels, and lungs.
- Stop smoking to minimize developing serious illnesses such as heart disease.
These lifestyle changes are associated with longer life expectancy and minimized chances of developing degenerative disorder that affects memory. Caregivers should also understand that many seniors with Alzheimer's may find applying and maintaining these lifestyle changes challenging. This is why it is important to offer them the needed support to help them live a quality life.
Symptom Management of Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease is currently a global challenge with no cure, but it can be managed. The early symptoms include forgetting recent activities and conversations. With time, the individual develops memory loss and finds tasks more challenging.
It is important to seek medical care once the symptoms appear because treatment works best in the early stages. Applying behavioral changes can also help the individual stay calm and comfortable.
Researchers have made formidable progress in understanding the disease and devising new treatments in recent years. They have recently developed several medications that are currently in late-stage clinical trials.
The Future of Alzheimer's Disease Treatments and Management
Researchers continue to explore various avenues to uncover more information about Alzheimer's disease for possible intervention. But it is important to encourage your senior loved one to continue practicing lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms and improve their quality of life.
If you have a senior loved one living with this disease, it is important to give them immediate care, support, and attention. Stay updated with the latest findings to help you take good care of your senior loved one.
At Senior Helpers Lee's Summit / South Kansas City, this is what we do. We care for seniors in the comfort of their homes in Lee's Summit, Kansas City, Blue Springs, and the surrounding areas. Contact us for a free consultation to learn about our wide range of services.