The aging human body brings physical and cognitive changes, a normal part of the aging process. Many older individuals will notice that they experience differences in their ability to learn new things, retain information, or even recall simple thoughts or words. If these memory lapses interfere with your daily lifestyle, it may cause concern.
Alzheimer’s is the most frequently diagnosed cause of dementia, but it is not the only cause. Although treatments can not reverse or stop the advancement of dementia, having support for your senior loved one is very important.
Cognitive Changes
If you are experiencing memory loss or cognitive impairment that interferes with your life, you probably should see a healthcare professional. Cognitive changes, such as frequently forgetting to bathe or eat, warrant a consultation. These symptoms are collectively called dementia, and healthcare professionals will attempt to discover what is causing your symptoms.
Labeling your symptoms will often dictate treatment. Alzheimer’s is a specific diagnosis of a type of dementia. A physical examination that includes various tests will help healthcare professionals diagnose why you are experiencing these symptoms. The causes can vary, including other diseases, medications, vitamin deficiencies, and dehydration.
Alzheimer’s
If your condition is labeled Alzheimer’s, you will likely be prescribed medication, whereas mild symptoms of dementia will often be treated differently. Treatment to alleviate the symptoms of dementia not considered Alzheimer’s or from another specifically identified cause will often include suggestions for lifestyle changes.
Physical Exercise
Exercise is considered necessary to treat symptoms of dementia associated with natural aging and Alzheimer’s. Research is ongoing, and there are few thorough explanations for why ever practices help prevent and improve symptoms of dementia. However, the evidence is strong enough that medical professionals everywhere suggest exercise for older patients, including those with Alzheimer’s.
Cognitive Exercises
Cognitive exercises such as puzzles and games are often used to help treat the symptoms of dementia and the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Ongoing research is about the benefits of cognitive exercises in effectively treating these diseases. Although none of these studies has arrived at a conclusive answer, there is no downside to engaging in such activities. On the contrary, the possible upside is that they will help improve your ability to live with Alzheimer’s or age-related dementia by reducing the symptoms of forgetfulness for at least some period.
Remain Active & Engaged
Make efforts to remain active and engaged in your lifestyle even after seeing symptoms of dementia. You may need a companion or other healthcare professional to help you maintain your lifestyle. Still, there is evidence that working to stay active and healthy does help slow down the onset of age-related dementia symptoms.
Cognitive changes associated with aging can often be helped by adhering to a healthy lifestyle. Use the tips above to adapt to your aging brain even if you receive an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis.
Baxter Senior Living is a Senior Housing Community located in Anchorage, Alaska, off Baxter Road. If you are seeking Anchorage Senior Housing or Assisted Living Communities in Alaska, please contact us today to make your reservations. (907) 865-3500 or fill out our contact form,m, and we will be in touch! contact us
