Memory loss that impacts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. Alzheimer’s causes a gradual decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. Read on to learn about steps to identify, prevent, or slow the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Keeping Your Brain Healthy as You Age
Research shows people can reduce their risk of cognitive decline through regular physical activity, social engagement, and a healthy diet.
- Stay Physically Active: Exercise increases blood flow to your brain, providing nourishment. Improving strength and balance reduces the risk of falling. Choose an activity you enjoy and invite friends to join to stay motivated.
- Stay Mentally & Socially Engaged: Mentally challenging activities like learning new skills or hobbies keep your mind active. Participating in clubs, community programs, and regular social gatherings with friends and family can reduce rates of disability, mortality, and depression.
- Adopt a Healthy Diet: Eating a heart-healthy diet benefits both your body and brain. Focus on less processed, lower-fat foods, along with more vegetables and lean proteins. Such diets can reduce heart disease and may lower the risk of cognitive decline.
10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
It is important to watch for the following symptoms so that you can get help in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Challenges in planning or problem-solving
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgment
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Changes in mood and personality
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
Many believe Alzheimer’s and dementia are natural parts of aging, but this is not true. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, new medications and steps can slow its impact. If you notice any of the signs above in yourself or someone you know, don’t ignore them. Schedule an appointment with your doctor.