Brain health: It’s a topic that many of us are concerned about. Most of us know someone who suffers from dementia, and there’s good reason why experts call Alzheimer’s “the biggest health crisis facing the world today.” In fact, about 6.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and the number is expected to reach 7.1 million by 2025.
Watching loved ones suffer from deteriorating brain health can be extremely challenging. It can also be uncomfortable to realize your own risk of developing dementia as statistics rise. So, what if you knew the disease was in your future? Would you act now?
The good news is that there are steps you can take today to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. It’s also important to remember that it is never too late to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Here are a few ways to boost brain health:
Get good quality sleep. Six to eight hours of restful sleep allows the immune system to repair and renew the body. This is also true for the brain. When one doesn’t get enough sleep, the deposition of beta-amyloid builds and this can form Alzheimer’s plaque.
Learn something new. You’ve heard the saying, “Use it or lose it.” Activities that challenge the brain such as learning and intellectual hobbies strengthen synapses between brain cells. Overall, this can improve brain health.
Stay socially connected. According to the CDC, social isolation is associated with about a 50% increased risk of dementia. Maintaining relationships helps to provide a sense of purpose, and it helps to prevent cognitive decline.
Take care of your mental health. Studies have shown that a history of depression increases risk of cognitive decline. Reducing stress, participating in hobbies you enjoy, and finding support can help to improve mental health.
These steps to boost brain health are just a few ways to take action. If you are interested in learning more, resources are closer than you may think.
A Different Mindset Association, located in Hays, aims to support caregivers, provide education, network resources, and promote awareness about Dementia. Currently, the group hosts caregiver support group meetings via Zoom, and will begin an in-person option starting on April 25th at the Hays Med Center for Health Improvement. The group is also preparing to launch respite services for caregivers soon.
Along with these promising plans, A Different Mindset Association will partner with K-State Research and Extension to present Alzheimer’s 101 in April. In the program, we will educate about various types of Dementia including Alzheimer’s, Vascular Dementia, Parkinson’s, and more. We will uncover the signs of Alzheimer’s and discuss caregiver support opportunities. The following evening, in a panel discussion with experienced caregivers, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions.
Join us on April 10th and 11th at 6:30 p.m. at the Hays Cottonwood Extension office to learn more about Alzheimer’s and what you can do for better brain health for you and your loved ones. The cost is free, and the time to learn is now.
To register, please call the Cottonwood Extension District at (620) 793-1910.
Karissa Winkel is the family and community wellness agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her at 620-793-1910 orkrwinkel@ksu.edu.
