“Where on earth did I put my gold earrings?” Alzheimer’s continues to manifest in populations of the elderly at increasing rates, posing problems for caretakers and family members related to long-term care. The crumbling mental state of an Alzheimer’s patient and their tendency to experience collateral physical afflictions is a frightening combination of variables for both the patient and their support system.
Though research does not offer a concrete statement as to the effectiveness of diet and activity on prevention of Alzheimer’s in the elderly, evidence suggests there are benefits to manipulating eating habits and participating in games and neurologically-challenging activities. Some prescription medications slow the symptoms of Alzheimer’s to an extent that eases the transition for patients into later stages of the disease, but prevention altogether is the goal of lifestyle changes in the elderly.
Of the encouraged behaviors believed to stifle the onset of Alzheimer’s, none have more of an effect than regular exercise. Elderly patients who are able should exercise moderately for about a half hour, five times a week. Exercising programs for the elderly should include aerobic activity, weight training and stretching. Building muscle in conjunction with flexibility may decrease the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s by as much as 35%.
Aside from organized physical activities in the form of exercise and stretching programs, elderly individuals can boost their activity by performing common household tasks. Activities such as gardening, sweeping the house and taking the stairs all contribute to an individual’s overall health.
Brain exercises, from exercises in memorization to committing to learning something new every day, all are effective in keeping the neurological functions firing at healthy rates. To maximize the results of exercise to prevent Alzheimer’s, a brain-healthy diet should be implemented as well. Eating several small meals throughout the day, focusing on the types of food found in the Mediterranean diet, is an effective way of keeping blood sugar and insulin levels consistent. Organic foods seem to be beneficial to patients with a tendency towards developing Alzheimer’s, as well as a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and lots of fresh greens.
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