Notes from the Parish Nurse - Dementia and Brain Awareness Month
June is Dementia and Brain Awareness Month. The incidence of dementia is increasing as our population ages. There are many different type of dementia, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease. While researchers aren’t sure what causes Alzheimer’s, they suspect that plaques and “bundles” in the brain might be responsible. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends the following to help promote brain health and possibly prevent dementia. Though it hasn’t been proven that these strategies help, some research indicates they may reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
• Break a sweat. Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise that elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow to your brain and body.
• Don’t ignore hearing loss! There is a growing body of evidence that shows a strong relationship between hearing loss and dementia, in that better hearing seems to delay cognitive decline.
• Hit the books. Formal education in any stage of life seems to help reduce the risk of dementia. Take a class at a college, community center, or online.
• Stop smoking. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of cognitive decline to levels comparable to those who have not smoked.
• Follow your heart. Evidence shows that risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke—obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes—negatively impact cognitive health. Take care of your heart, and your brain might follow.
• Heads up! Help prevent brain injury by wearing a seat belt when in a vehicle, using a helmet when playing contact sports or riding a bike, and preventing falls.
• Fuel up! Eat a healthy and balanced diet that is lower in fat and higher in vegetables and fruits.
• Catch some ZZZs. Not getting enough sleep due to conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea may result in problems with memory and thinking. Consult your care provider if you are frequently having problems getting between 6-8 hours of sleep per night.
• Take care of your mental health. Seek medical treatment if you have symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns. Also, try to manage stress.
• Buddy up. Staying socially engaged may support brain health. Pursue social activities that are meaningful to you.
• Stump yourself. Challenge and activate your mind. Build a piece of furniture, complete a jigsaw puzzle, do something artistic, or play games that make you think strategically.
LOVE YOUR BRAIN and you just might be able to protect it from dementia. www.alz.org, www.fcnntc.org
Those of us living in colder winter weather states cherish the summer months when there are so many fun outdoor activities such as playing sports, enjoying the weather, swimming, bike riding, and so much more. Here are some tips to remember, to ensure a safe summer full of good memories.
• Use sunscreen and reapply every 2-3 hours. This is important for children AND adults. 90% of skin cancer is caused by the UV rays of the sun, so avoid the outdoor peak hours of 10 AM to 4 PM. Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, stay in the shade when possible, and wear a hat.
• Wear UV-protective sunglasses. Exposure to the sun’s rays is a big factor in the formation of cataracts.
• Wear a bike helmet!! Yes, even adults! They can save lives and prevent serious head injuries by 60%.
• Protect yourself from insect bites. Wear insect repellant when outside, especially at dawn and dusk. Also, wear long sleeves and long pants to protect against bites from mosquitoes and ticks that can carry diseases.
• Practice good water safety!! Never swim alone, watch carefully children who are swimming, and wear a PFD (personal flotation device/life jacket) when boating.
• Have a severe weather plan at home! A severe weather “kit” should contain batteries, first aid supplies, snacks, bottled water, flashlights, a battery operated radio or NOAA radio, and your cell phone. Talk over a severe weather plan with family members so all are prepared for an emergency.
Following these tips can help you and your loved ones have a safe and wonderful summer! www.fcnntc.org