Birçoğumuz Alzheimer hastalığının kişisel bir deneyim olacak, yakın bir akrabası veya yaşlı komşusu yoluyla da olabilir. Alzheimer hafıza kaybı ile karakterizedir, zamanın izini ve güçlükleri, konuşma ve yazma kaybediyor. İrlanda'da, approximately forty thousand people suffer from the disease and related forms of dementia and although there is no known cure or failsafe method of preventing the onset of the disease, certain lifestyle changes are thought to reduce your risk of developing it.
Mental Stimulation
Exercising your brain by doing mentally stimulating activities not only improves your mental capacities, it also reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer. Consider taking a foreign language class or a university course to keep your brain cells buzzing. Other forms of brain stimulation that might be easier to incorporate into your everyday life include crosswords, Sudoku and even cooking. Genel olarak, it’s a good idea to shake things up every now and then by changing the way you do things as this forces the brain to keep active rather than relying on learnt habits.
Reduce Stress
Reduce your stress levels. Stress can ultimately cause damage to brain cells, so try whenever you find yourself getting stressed, take a minute to breathe and calm down. Put a sticky note with the word “Breathe” on it by your computer or on the fridge and whenever you see it, take a deep breath. You’ll find that this simple measure will have you feeling more relaxed in no time.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is another important way of preventing Alzheimer’s. Exercise reduces your stress levels, improves your memory, increases your energy levels and keeps you in shape. With so many benefits, it’s hard to justify a sedentary lifestyle. Choose an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your routine. Some people like the social element of group sports, so look into what sports clubs are in your area. If sports aren’t your thing, make an evening walk part of your routine.
Diet
As with all aspects of your health, heavy drinking and smoking are extremely damaging, so if you are a heavy smoker or drinker, consider cutting down or quitting entirely for the sake of your health. Your diet, too, plays a role in mental health and should include good amounts of fruit and vegetables, as well as healthy fats and protein. Green and white teas are thought to keep your brain active and alert as well as helping you de-stress, so take to relaxing with a cup of tea when you have the time.
If you are worried about your mental health or that of a loved one or think you recognise the early symptoms of Alzheimer’s, it’s best to consult a professional.
This article was written by health professional Muriel Noonan on behalf of a firm specialising in providing home care for the ill and the elderly.
