Why Are More People Developing Dementia?
It’s due in part to the increasing elderly population. The large baby boomer population is at particular risk as they approach the age bracket that’s associated with increased dementia risk.
Individuals born between 1946 and 1964 encompass ages 60 to 77. Roughly 7% of adults older than 60 have dementia, while 35% of those 85 and older develop the condition.
Higher rates of obesity, diabetes and smoking are also contributing to more cases of dementia due to their negative effect on cardiovascular health.
Risk Factors for Dementia
Poor cardiovascular health: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease and other cardiac-related conditions can cause vascular dementia. Your brain requires constant blood flow and oxygenation to function, which may be negatively affected by poor heart health. High blood pressure can thin your brain’s blood vessels.
A lack of exercise: Physical activity promotes good blood circulation, which is essential to brain health. You may become overweight or develop obesity if you don’t get enough exercise. Obesity can also exacerbate other conditions, like diabetes, that are linked to an increased risk of developing dementia.
Tobacco use: Smoking reduces your blood oxygen level. It also raises your risk of developing a blood clot or stroke, which can cause vascular dementia.
A family history of cognitive issues: While not guaranteed, you’re 10% to 30% more likely to develop dementia if you have a first-degree relative with the condition.
Gender: Women tend to be at a slightly higher risk of developing dementia.
Empower Memory Care at Embassy Healthcare
At Embassy Healthcare, we’re committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for individuals with memory loss, cognitive decline, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Our Empower Memory Care program is designed to address the needs of individuals with different types of dementia. That includes creating a comfortable living environment and providing engaging activities.
Our holistic approach to memory care involves an interdisciplinary team that works together to provide the clinical and personal necessities needed to improve the overall quality of life. We use different assessments to determine cognitive function and mental status to create a care plan that addresses each resident’s unique needs.
Call 216-378-2050 or contact us online to learn more about our Empower Memory Care services. You can also schedule a tour of one of our facilities in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Florida.
