Many people are afraid to Alzheimer to get sick. The most common form of dementia is still incurable. The risk of disease increases with age. The good news is that we can actively do something to reduce our risk of Alzheimer’s. According to current research, up to 40 percent of Alzheimer’s diseases can be avoided through an active and healthy lifestyle and preventive health care.
To celebrate World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21, we’ve put together 12 risk factors that everyone can look out for to help prevent Alzheimer’s. These tips are taken from the brochure “Preventing Alzheimer’s – Healthy living, healthy aging”, in which all points are explained in detail. The brochure can be ordered free of charge from the non-profit Düsseldorfer Alzheimer’s Research Initiative eV, Kreuzstr. 34, 40210 Dusseldorf; Telephone number 0211 – 86 20 66 0 or here.
1st movement:
What’s good for your heart is good for your brain. This includes getting enough exercise – at least 2.5 hours a week is ideal.
2. Mental fitness:
Learn new things – even in old age. That keeps your brain busy. Whether it’s a musical instrument, a language or how to use a computer, try something new.
3. Healthy Eating:
Follow the classic Mediterranean diet. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, olive oil and nuts. Choose fish instead of red meat.
4. Social contacts:
Activities as a couple or in a group are more fun and your brain cells are challenged. Make an appointment to do sports, make music, play cards or cook together.
5. Reduce excess weight:
Be careful not to weigh too many pounds. A healthy diet and regular exercise will help you with this.
6. Getting Adequate Sleep:
Get good, adequate sleep to allow the brain to break down toxins and recover.
7. No smoking:
Smoking also damages your brain. Quit smoking, it’s never too late.
8. Avoid Head Injuries:
Take care of your head in everyday life and during sports and wear a helmet when riding a bike, for example.
9. Hypertension:
Have your blood pressure checked regularly. High blood pressure should definitely be treated.
10. Diabetes:
Keep an eye on your blood sugar level. If it is permanently too high, you should take action in consultation with your doctor.
11. Depression:
Take good care of yourself. If you are listless or depressed for a long time, it makes sense to see your doctor to find out the cause. Depression should not go untreated.
12. Deafness:
If you notice that your hearing is deteriorating, take it seriously. With a hearing aid, you can correct a declining hearing ability very well.
Order information: “Preventing Alzheimer’s: Healthy living – healthy aging” and other information materials can be ordered free of charge from the Alzheimer Research Initiative eV, Kreuzstr. 34, 40210 Dusseldorf; Telephone number 0211 – 86 20 66 0; Website: www.alzheimer-forschung.de/alzheimer-vorbeugen
