As we go into the holiday season, there are many things to remember, prepare and do. No wonder we often start to doubt ourselves when we can’t find something or forget an appointment or special day. If we have had relatives with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, we start to be concerned.
There are some actions we can take. A recent study followed over 11,500 people with an average age of 54 for 25 years. It was found that even those with a high genetic risk for Alzheimer’s benefited from a healthy lifestyle.
Participants were scored on American Heart Association’s Life’s Simple 7: physical activity, cholesterol, diet, obesity, smoking, blood pressure and blood sugar. This scoring system is designed as a way to measure cardiovascular and brain health. Better scores at mid-life of the Simple 7 were associated with lower dementia risk for participants with all levels of genetic risk.
To protect your brain and heart, get moving and eat well, including lots of green vegetables and fruits and less red meat. Avoid all tobacco products, reduce alcohol, get at least seven hours of sleep a night, and work to reduce stress, excess body fat, blood pressure, LD cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as necessary.
When you start moving, add in a daily walk or exercise time of 30 minutes at least five days a week. This may be done in increments if there is no time for a full 30 minutes at one time. These lifestyle habits may decrease your chances of developing dementia, plus they will provide a healthier and more vibrant life now.
We often spend time worrying about potential health issues that professionals can readily address. Ask your medical provider for advice if you are questioning your cognitive ability. Remember, too, that the most organized people make lists, keep calendars on paper or their phones, and have a daily reminder system of to-dos. Living a healthy and organized life pays off, allowing us to enjoy the holidays and our friends and families.