Cognitive impairments are becoming more and more common in today’s society. If you have older parents that may be affected by these disease, you can become easily frightened and jump to conclusions. The reality is that there is a vast spectrum of cognitive impairments. Here at Brickmont, we know how important it is to remain vigilant and educated in order to take action and slow the progress of any debilitation such as Alzheimer’s. If you are aware of the signs of Alzheimer’s disease, you can catch symptoms early and take preventative action.
Symptoms
Alzheimer’s disease, or sometimes called senile dementia, can impact cognitive, behavioral, mood, and physiological functions. This disease is extremely common, and no known cure exists. That is why it is so important to be educated on Alzheimer’s disease and aware of any early signs. These signs and symptoms can include:
- Memory loss and confusions
- Repeating questions
- Trouble coming up with words
- Poor judgment
- Decreased problem-solving ability
- Personality change and mood swings
- Increased anxiety or aggression
- Getting lost and wandering
- Increasing trouble performing daily tasks
- Frequently misplacing items
- Forgetting appointments/events
The actual signs vary from person to person, but if your parents are exhibiting any of these symptoms, you may want to schedule a visit with their primary care physician.
Early Detection
Noticing the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease could dramatically slow down the disease for your parents. Do not ignore these signs as just “old age” in your loved ones. When cognitive impairment diseases are detected early, you can receive the maximum benefit of available treatments. This will allow mom or dad to remain independent for longer periods than without treatment.
Another benefit of early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is that your loved one will have a say in the planning process of their future. They can choose living options and which memory care community would be the best fit for them. With early onset treatments, a lot of things can be prevented, including decreasing the stress level of everyone involved. Of course, the best way to avoid the stress of dealing with dementia-related diseases is to take the actions to prevent them.
Prevention
The best prevention of cognitive impairment related diseases is to lead a healthy lifestyle. This is important for your parents, but it is also important for you too. It is never too early to start being healthy!
- Exercise - It is one of the best things to do for an aging body to keep your blood pumping, muscles working, and brain active. According to Harvard Medical School, 30 minutes of exercise three to four times a week helps prevent Alzheimer’s or slow the progression of symptoms for those who have it.
- Sleep - When you sleep your cells repair themselves, and our body naturally heals. Alzheimer’s is directly linked to brain cell damage and deterioration. So, instead of staying up to binge your favorite TV show, we suggest turning in early!
- Diet – Relax, we’re not going to say no more bread, but we actually suggest eating more … of a Mediterranean diet. This includes fruits, vegetables, olive oil, fish, legumes, nuts, and moderate amounts of poultry, eggs, and red wine. This diet has been proven to help in the prevention of the disease.
Other helpful prevention tips include keeping your brain active. Learn a new language. Learn a new song on the piano. Do a Sudoku or crossword puzzle. Keep learning and challenging yourself at every age to keep your brain sharp!
Knowing the signs of Alzheimer’s disease could add years to your loved one’s life. If you do notice any of the symptoms or signs, make an appointment with your parent’s doctor so they can immediately receive early treatment. And remember, it’s never too early (or too late!) to start efforts to prevent Alzheimer’s disease
If you would like to discuss memory care options, contact us today!