Reflecting on Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness month. During this month, you’re encouraged to spend time advocating for the end of Alzheimer’s. You can do so by donating to organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association and researching the ways this disease impacts the lives of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and dementia and their families. By raising awareness, we are able to recognize the importance of brain health and find ways to keep our brains healthy and active, as well as, support those living with this disease.

Fifty million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia conditions. The Alzheimer’s Association lists the 10 early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia as:

1. Memory loss that interrupts daily life
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks
4. Confusion with time or place
5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
7. Misplacing belongings and losing the ability to retrace steps
8. Decreased or poor judgement
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
10. Changes in mood or personality

Beyond understanding what the early signs of this disease are, we’re able to actively take part in our brain health now by participating in activities that improve cognitive function.

How to Keep the Brain Healthy

Participate in Healthy Brain Activities: From reading and crossword puzzles to cooking a new recipe, you’re able to find an activity you love that also contributes to a healthy mind. Studies have found that these kinds of activities help to stimulate nerve cells and may even help the brain generate new cells.

Eat a Balanced Diet: A healthy diet goes beyond your physical health to influence a healthy brain, as well. A balanced diet can help lead to proper brain development, improved memory and protection from serious brain damage.

Connect with Others: Studies have found that positive relationships can help protect against memory loss, showing that socialization opportunities benefit your brain health by increasing mental stimulation.

Discuss Brain Health with Your Doctor: Your healthcare provider is a great resource when it comes to ensuring optimal brain health. Along with voicing any concerns you may have, also ask to check vital signs, such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels, for an overall look into your wellness.

Find a Healthy Senior Living Lifestyle at Monroe Village

At Monroe Village, we focus on helping you live the happiest, healthiest life you possibly can –and that includes ensuring a healthy mind. Along with offering onsite healthcare services and raising awareness of Alzheimer’s and other dementia conditions, we encourage you to take part in supporting your own brain health and cognitive function through numerous onsite amenities and activities. This includes healthy dining options, engaging continuing education opportunities and social events where neighbors become close friends.

Contact us today to learn more.