What’s the Imapct?

Aging can be a difficult process no matter where you’re from, but one thing seems to remain the same: the fear of developing Alzheimer’s. In fact, nearly 44 million people suffer from Alzheimer’s worldwide, with nearly 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 65 being diagnosed with the disease.

From memory loss to other declining cognitive functions, it can be enough to interfere with the daily life of the individual suffering from it.

Know the Signs

    Though it’s important to be diagnosed by a physician, Alzheimer’s can be detected in a number of ways, such as:

  • Memory loss that disturbs everyday life
  • Challenges in planning or problem solving
  • Difficulty finishing familiar tasks
  • Confusion with location or time
  • Difficulty understanding distance and visual images
  • Complications in speaking or writing
  • Misplacing objects and/or losing the ability to retrace steps
  • Lacking or decrease in proper judgment
  • Withdrawal from activities such as work
  • Changes in personality

Most experts agree that the disease is a complex mix of environmental factors, age, genetics and other medical conditions, such as high blood pressure. Other conditions that are known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol, may also be a contributing factor to developing Alzheimer’s.

So what’s the good news?

Aging doesn’t have to be so scary! It’s never too early to begin the fight against Alzheimer’s. In fact, experts have listed Six Pillars for Prevention, including:

  • Regular Exercise
  • Social Engagement
  • Healthy Diet
  • Mental Stimulation
  • Quality Sleep
  • Stress Management

Though researchers are still unware of the exact cause for Alzheimer’s, promising research has shown that a simple combination of the Six Pillars for Prevention is a promising step in reducing an individual’s risk of being diagnosed.

Creating a future without Alzheimer’s may be easier said than done, but with enough advocacy and awareness, it’s not something you or your loved one have to go through alone. For more information regarding Alzheimer’s, click here.