Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Leave a comment

Age: Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. The majority of those with the disease are age 65 or older.

Family History: Individuals with someone in their family who has had the disease has a higher chance they will develop the disease.

Genetics: There are two categories of genes that influence whether someone develops the disease: deterministic and risk genes. Learn more.

Other factors: Such as head injury, heart-head connection, and healthy aging. Learn more.

• Head Injury: Traumatic brain injury can increase the risk of dementia, especially if severe or a repeated occurrence. Please protect your head by wearing your seatbelt, helmets, and preparing your home to prevent falls.
• Heart-Head Connection: Strong evidence suggests that what is good for your heart is good for your brain. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and high cholesterol appear to increase the risk of vascular dementia or Alzheimer’s. Be sure to work with your doctor and monitor your heart health and treat all problems that arise.
• Healthy Aging: Strategies for our brain health are like the overall healthy aging strategies and may help to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The Ten Ways to Love Your Brain from the Alzheimer’s Association provide 10 healthy habits to help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Ten Ways to Love Your Brain:

1. Break a Sweat
2. Hit the Books
3. Butt Out
4. Follow your Heart
5. Heads up
6. Fuel up Right
7. Catch Some ZZZ’s
8. Take Care of Your Mental Health
9. Buddy Up
10. Stump Yourself

Learn more: 10 Ways to Love Your Brain | Alzheimer’s Association

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