June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

In June, The Alzheimer’s Association recognizes Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month in its ongoing effort to raise awareness about the disease and other types of dementia. As a provider of in-home nursing and companion services, we often work with families whose loved ones are suffering from this devastating disease. We have witnessed first-hand the toll that dementia takes on the individual and their families. This June—and all year long—we are proud to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of the disease, as well as the ways that we can try to prevent it, and support efforts that work towards finding a cure.

You can help us spread the word this Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness month. For starters, wear purple, which is the official color of the Alzheimer’s movement to visibly show the movement to support the efforts of researchers and caregivers who work tirelessly to help those who suffer from the disease. Secondly, read and share these facts and stats with family and friends.

5 Stats about Alzheimer’s and Dementia from the Alzheimer’s Association

1. 47 million people are living with dementia worldwide.
2. The annual global cost of the disease is $818 billion.
3. Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S.
4. More than five million Americans are living with the disease.
5. In the U.S., someone develops Alzheimer’s disease every 66 seconds.

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease from the Alzheimer’s Association

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life.
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems.
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks.
4. Confusion with time or place.
5. Trouble understanding visual images and spacial relationships.
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing.
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps.
8. Decreased or poor judgment.
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities.
10. Changes in mood and personality.

While occasional displays of these signs and symptoms may be related to normal aging, a much more serious problem may be present when they are more the norm than just sporadic events. If you notice that you or a loved one exhibits these symptoms on a regular basis, you should go see a doctor for a more in-depth exam for dementia. Although there is no surefire way to prevent dementia, there are some steps you can take to keep your brain healthy and active.

5 Ways to Prevent Cognitive Decline

Keep your brain healthy and active with these activities!

1. Exercise to elevate heart rate and increase blood flow to the brain.
2. Study something new! Take a class or learn a new subject. Even online courses count as a way to study a new subject.
3. Quit smoking. This is an all-around health benefit that cannot be ignored. Quit smoking to lead a healthier, longer life.
4. Eat right by eating a healthy and balanced diet that is lower in fat.
5. Challenge yourself everyday! This may mean engaging in a new, creative project or playing a strategic game like Bridge. Simple things like taking a different way home from work also challenge your brain, and are easy to incorporate into your daily schedule.

Alzheimer’s disease is a terrible and debilitating disease. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms, as well as ways to keep your brain healthy, because as of now, there is no cure for dementia. By staying engaged with the Alzheimer’s movement, you can choose activities to support research, caregivers, and the needs of those who have been diagnosed with the disease.

If you know someone who suffers from Alzheimer’s, or another form of dementia, and who would like to stay living comfortably in his or her home, contact us at 24/7 Nursing Care to learn more about our in-home caregiving services with a complimentary in-home consultation. We can be reached at 786-518-3622.

References:

10 Ways to Love Your Brain. (n.d.). Retrieved June 05, 2017, from http://alz.org/brain-health/10_ways-to-love-your-brain.asp

Memory Loss & 10 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s. (n.d.). Retrieved June 05, 2017, from http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_10_signs_of_alzheimers.asp#signs