June is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month!
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, there are steps we can take to minimize risk. In fact, the same healthy habits that support your body also support your brain.
They include:
Yes to No Smoking! Smoking is a habit that decreases brain volume and increases risk of dementia.
Yes to Exercise! According to the Alzheimer’s Society, “Regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing dementia by about 28%. For Alzheimer's disease specifically, the risk was reduced by 45%.” Keeping active can include gardening, walking, gentle yoga, and tai chi. Think movement. More about exercise here.
Yes to healthy eating! According to the National Institute on Aging, diet likely plays a significant role in brain health. Focusing on whole grains, green leafy vegetables, berries, beans, and nuts may support brain health over time. More on the benefits of nutrition here.
Yes to more and better zzzzz’s! The National Institutes of Health reports studies show that people who slept six hours or less per night in their 50s and 60s were more likely to develop dementia later in life. More about getting great sleep here.
Looking for more support caring for a loved one as end of life draws near? Contact Enchanted Sky Hospice so we can offer our services and supports to patient and family. We are open 24 / 7 and you can reach us at 505-982-0209.
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