6 New Insights About Alzheimer's in 2022: Lifestyles, Habits, and Symptom Management

The past few years have seen rapid advancement and achievements in the study of Alzheimer's Disease and other related dementias. The ever-evolving science and subsequent discoveries have yielded new and improved diagnostics and insights. While progress in understanding Alzheimer's might seem limited, much has been done to mitigate and manage the disease.

Seniors, families, and caregivers in Pittsburgh can use the scientific community's recent progress and recommendations as a guide for providing the best outcomes. Thoughtful lifestyle changes, smarter daily habits, and focused symptom management can make all the difference.

What's New in Alzheimer's Research in 2022?

A recent study by scientists in Australia has identified specific inflammation factors which may be responsible for the development of Alzheimer's. Though lead study author Dr. John Mamo, PH.D. says more study is needed, the opportunity to explore new potential medical options is on the horizon. Measuring biomarkers for earlier detection as well as new drugs for treatment are all on the table this year too. In the meantime, there are several healthy lifestyle choices that can make a difference in combatting or coping with Alzheimer's Disease. Here are six effective lifestyle habits to incorporate for the best results:

Eat a Healthy Diet to Cope With Alzheimer's

Researchers around the globe have concluded eating a brain-healthy diet can lower the risk of cognitive decline. According to Harvard Health, a Mediterranean-style diet including omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish and plenty of vegetables can boost cognitive performance.

Manage Blood Pressure

A John Hopkins analysis found that keeping your blood pressure within a healthy range is one of the best ways to ward off Alzheimer's. Regularly taking your local physician's prescribed blood pressure medication may also slow the progress of the disease.

Control Cholesterol Levels

Though cholesterol itself does not affect the brain, maintaining healthy levels benefits your well-being as a whole. Researchers are still studying how "good" cholesterol might in fact lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's.

Reduce Blood Sugar

There are more than 30 million people in the United States who have been diagnosed with diabetes. Studies have shown that high blood sugar at an early age could increase the chances of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's later on.

Lose Some Weight

Shedding extra weight not only reduces the unnecessary burdens on your heart and lungs, but it may also delay the onset of Alzheimer's according to recent research.

Be Active Daily

Physical activity on a daily basis is one of the most important ways to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. A JAMA Neurology study says walking just 10,000 steps a day is beneficial to your vascular system and may cut the risk of dementia by half.

Managing Alzheimer's Symptoms

Alzheimer's Disease is complex and affects every individual in a different way. Managing symptoms is often a combination of using FDA-approved drug therapies including the newly-approved drug, Aduhelm, and non-medicinal memory therapies. Caregivers at Senior Helpers Alle-Kiske Valley report varying degrees of progress in seniors with no-drug interventions like music and art therapy or memory exercises.

Playing mentally stimulating games both online and with others can keep your brain sharp and might ward off cognitive decline. It also encourages social interaction which, along with memory-related games, provides two-fold benefits to seniors.

Choose Senior Helpers for Quality In-Home Care

Senior Helpers is your number one quality resource for in-home, specialized care in New Kensington, Pittsburgh, Indiana, and Kittanning. We offer customized services designed to provide the peace of mind you and your loved ones deserve. Contact us anytime and let us know what we can do for you.