There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia, but effective treatment will manage symptoms and mitigate the effects of memory loss. Taking steps to protect your cognitive abilities and finding the right memory care program can also slow the progression of cognitive impairment.
Lowering Your Risk for Cognitive Decline
While you can’t control age-related or genetic factors that predispose you to memory loss, there are preventative measures you can take to lower your risk for dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Exercise regularly: You can reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s by 50% when you implement physical activity. Including 20 minutes of strength and cardio training each day supports your cardiovascular system, which is closely linked to your brain health.
Eat right: The right diet gives your brain the nutrients it needs to function at its best. Include fruits and vegetables that are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids are also essential in reducing beta-amyloid plaques, which block communication between neurons.
Train your brain: Treat your brain like a muscle and exercise it as you do the rest of your body. Play memory or strategy games and challenge yourself to learn new things. Take up a new hobby, learn how to play an instrument or challenge yourself to improve in your current pursuits.
Stay socially engaged: Isolation exacerbates cognitive decline and increases your risk for depression. Communication is crucial to managing memory loss and helps you build a support network. Meeting with family and friends, chatting with neighbors and volunteering are great ways to socialize.
Get plenty of sleep: Poor sleep habits lead to mental fogginess, disorientation and agitation, even in people who don’t have cognitive impairments. Establishing a sleep schedule regulates your internal clock, so you feel refreshed and energized.
Seeking Treatment or Memory Care
If you’ve been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia or notice your condition is progressing, it may be time to consider your treatment options. A dedicated dementia care community will provide you with the wellness support, safety and therapy you need to manage your symptoms.
Behavior management: Memory care staff are specially trained to address mood and behavior changes associated with cognitive decline. They create a structured environment to help you avoid triggers and positively redirect attention.
Cognitive therapy: There are different levels of cognitive training depending on your degree of memory loss. Cognitive rehabilitation is intended to help those in the early stages of dementia maintain their memory and brain function. Occupational therapy teaches coping techniques to those with moderate to severe memory loss.
Creative stimulation: Other therapy options include music and art therapy. Those programs are designed to soothe agitation and direct that energy into a creative outlet while providing fun entertainment.
Medication: Several medications are used to treat the symptoms of cognitive decline, behavioral changes and mood swings. However, each person is unique, and medication is not a one-size-fits-all treatment option. You’ll need to consult with a geriatrician before starting a prescription.
Embassy Healthcare offers dedicated memory care at several of our locations in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Florida. You can expect comprehensive treatment delivered by an expert team of caregivers. Contact us online or call 216-378-2050 for more information.
