Alzheimer’s disease is a kind of disorder of the brain wherein memory loss takes place also creating mental deterioration in people. However, the main cause of this disease is yet to be known. Along with the cause, treatments for this disease have also not yet been found by researchers. Yet, certain Alzheimer’s disease self-care remedies have been introduced much amongst the masses. Moreover, doctors and researchers recommend that following a healthy lifestyle can lessen the risks of developing the disease. 

Alzheimer’s mostly takes place among aged people and if a daily healthy lifestyle is practised, then it can be stopped from taking place. Alzheimer’s is not always fatal but it can cause serious mental health issues in individuals. But do you know what is Alzheimer’s disease exactly? Let us understand it and ways to reduce the risk of it.

It is believed that Alzheimer’s disease symptoms are either by a combination of genetic factors, environmental factors, or lifestyle traits. Specific treatments for this disease have also not yet been invented. Yet, practising a daily healthy lifestyle is crucial to keep the risk of Alzheimer’s away. One must look after not just their physical body but also mental health to stay away from diseases like Alzheimer’s.

First, Alzheimer’s disease is caused by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain which is at the elemental level. Breaking cells can be noticed in regions that are full of beta-amyloid plaques and they are located between the nerve cells, and tau tangles which are inside the cells. These protein deposits compete for the oxygen they need for communication and ultimately kill the nerve cells, leading to the destruction of memory, the ability to think, and even personality changes. More often than not, Alzheimer’s itself is not fatal, but it may be a reason for slow death for many individuals suffering from it if Alzheimer’s disease treatment is not done on time. 

Although age undoubtedly plays the most significant role in the development of Alzheimer’s, other factors including genetic factors or having a medical history of certain diseases additionally increase the probability of forming this disease. Therapy for Alzheimer’s disease has failed so far to confront the root causes of the disease or stop its progression; instead, it aims to relieve symptoms. However, it appears that one’s lifestyle can be considered one of the crucial factors that affect disease prevention in people. One needs to take necessary precautions as a part of Alzheimer’s disease self-care at the initial stage to minimise the risk of its occurrence later on.

Healthy lifestyles to keep away Alzheimer’s 

Implementation of the basic daily health behaviour can help you to escape from the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, the state and the level of cognition that ranges from a diet to exercise or cognitive stimulation can be the protective factors against Alzheimer’s disease. So let us have a look at 10 important lifestyle habits which can help a person reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease:

• Stay mentally active:

Mental activity is a vital factor in lowering the probability of Alzheimer’s. Be active and start doing several mental tasks, like solving puzzles, reading, and learning new skills. Mental stimulation helps build a good mental space and that in turn lowers the chances of suffering from Alzheimer’s.

• Exercise regularly:

With moderate to intense aerobic training your health can get great significance. One must make sure to include some kind of daily physical activity in their routine such as walking, running, cycling etc. Physical exercise helps increase the blood flow in our body and thus oxygen supply to the brain is continuous. This moreover reduces the risk of heart disease and also diabetes which are linked to Alzheimer’s.

1. Eat a healthy diet:

Stay away from crash dieting. Choose a diet that has fruits and vegetables in it along with grains, protein and healthy fats. By limiting processed foods, sugar-filled snacks, and saturated fats you can lower the main causes of brain inflammation and cell death, that may cause Alzheimer’s.

• Get enough sleep:

Beneficial quality sleep can be obtained regularly with the use of a bedtime ritual, and a soft and calming environment. On average, an adult must have 7-8 hours of daily sleep. Moreover, sleep in good conditions and have a sound sleep to avoid the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

• Manage stress:

One more way to lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s is through practising relaxation methods. Some examples of such activities are mindfulness meditation, deep breathing or yoga to help you manage stress. Prolonged stress can result in changes in brain functions and the long term, it may lead to Alzheimer’s disease. An individual should begin practising stress relief activities so that they can be able to relieve stress and prevent the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Stay socially connected:

As people, we do need love and require the company of others. Strengthen your social group of friends, family, and community by each other and also start attending social events either individually or collectively. Being in touch with people is vital to not remain alone. Getting involved in social activities involving others will help wash dark away moods of loneliness and depression, both of which are hazardous factors in Alzheimer’s.

• Limit alcohol consumption:

Having a drink can hurt our health in many ways. Another negative health impact of alcohol consumption is the Alzheimer’s condition being caused by it. Consume in fewer quantities or better avoid it completely since excessive alcohol intake can sometimes damage the brain and affect your cognitive abilities. Become mindful of the official guidelines for alcohol consumption if you would like to maintain a healthy brain.

• Quit smoking:

If you smoke, quit right then because you are damaging both your inner organs and immune system. Smoking, other than destroying your lungs and heart is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia that cause great suffering. Not just Alzheimer’s but smoking can be injurious to health for various reasons too. 

• Protect your head:

Head injuries are tragic and a path to Alzheimer’s. A head injury of any kind that a person suffered as a child might also lead to Alzheimer’s as an adult. Therefore, make an effort to guard your head and make sure you wear a helmet whenever you drive. Last but not least, wear a helmet appropriately during sports or any recreational activities. By taking such precautions you will reduce the chance of getting an injury.

• Stay mentally and emotionally resilient:

Keeping oneself mentally fit is also a foremost habit that must be practised. Discuss any kind of mental health problems with health expert professionals. Do things that you love to remain mentally stable and fit. Don’t be emotionally vulnerable. Practising these healthy habits can keep Alzheimer’s away.

Conclusion 

Alzheimer’s disease self-care is likewise something that should be practised by every individual daily. Staying mentally active, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, managing stress, remaining socially engaged, avoiding alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and developing resilience—all these measures are part of Alzheimer’s disease self-care and will help you diminish the chances of having Alzheimer’s as you approach old age. Start incorporating these habits into your daily routine today to make your brain a healthy one and enjoy a vibrant life.