Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

Whether mild or more severe, many adults often develop memory issues as they age. According to one study, two out of three Americans experience some level of cognitive impairment at or around age 70. Since June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, our Southview Senior Communities want to call attention to dementia-related conditions by sharing signs to watch for as well as simple ways to take control of brain health.

Memory Loss by the Numbers

Characterized by progressive memory loss as well as changes in behavior, Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. In the U.S. alone, more than 7 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease, with one new development every 65 seconds.

Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the country, killing more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. Additionally, one in three older adults dies with either Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. And deaths from Alzheimer’s increased 142 percent in the years between 2020 and 2022, which is why it’s more important than ever to watch for early signs.

Early Signs of Alzheimer’s and Dementia

We all forget things from time to time—someone’s name, where we put the keys, if we closed the garage door. Many of us may leave notes for ourselves to remember to pick up milk or make an appointment. And forgetfulness can become more common with age. But when memory begins to slip and affect daily life, it may mean something more severe.

Here are some things to watch for:

• Inability to comprehend when and where, from losing track of days and time to forgetting where they are or how they got there
• Trouble with routine tasks, like driving through the neighborhood or paying bills
• Changes in vision that affect balance, judging distance, or reading ability
• Problems carrying on conversations because they cannot find the right words, forget the names of familiar things, or habitually lose their train of thought
• Excessive forgetfulness of important events or recent information, or repeating the same questions again and again
• Significant shifts in personality or demeanor, such as seeming anxious, despondent, or confused

Signs like these may seem insignificant or typical with age. But if you notice changes like this in yourself or a loved one, it’s best to see a doctor. It could be nothing, or it could be early symptoms of Alzheimer’s or other dementias. And early detection can provide better treatment options and offer peace of mind.

Ways to Keep Your Brain Healthy

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia, there are things everyone can do to keep their minds active and healthy while reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

Get regular exercise. From low-impact activities like yoga or gardening to walking or biking, engaging in activities that get you moving raises your heart rate and increases blood flow to the brain and throughout your body.

Stimulate your mind. Keep your brain fresh and active by trying a new activity, doing puzzles, reading, creating something artistic, or taking classes to learn new things.

Eat a balanced, nutritious diet. Embracing a diet rich in vegetables and lean proteins with lower-fat, less processed foods can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Get enough sleep. Give your brain time to recharge with good, quality sleep. Make sure your sleep space is quiet and comfortable and turn off electronics an hour or two before bedtime to give your body time to relax.

Take control of your health. From high blood pressure to type 2 diabetes, manage your health with exercise, a healthy diet, and medications as needed.

Protect your head and body. Always buckle up in the car and wear a helmet when biking or riding a motorcycle. If you engage in rigorous exercise or sports, take precautions to ensure safety.

Memory Care Options at Southview

During Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month and beyond, our Southview Senior Communities provide safe, secure environments in which residents can live healthy, happy, and engaging lives. We offer options for independent living, assisted living, and memory care for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other forms of memory loss.

Southview memory care staffers are specially trained, offering 24/7 supervision and help with daily tasks. Beyond basic assistance, our communities focus on engaging residents with tailored activities and routines to promote cognitive stimulation, reduce anxiety, and improve quality of life. Learn more about our dynamic communities and schedule your tour today.