June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. This month, we come together to support the millions affected by these conditions. Whether you have a loved one battling these diseases or simply want to take proactive steps for your cognitive well-being, there are numerous ways to get involved and make a difference.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. Dementia itself is not a specific disease but a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere with daily activities.  There are many types of dementia with the most common being Alzheimer’s, Lewy Body Dementia, Vascular Dementia and Frontotemporal dementia

Key facts about Alzheimer’s and dementia include:

• Prevalence: Approximately 6.5 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s. Many more are affected by other forms of dementia.
• Risk Factors: Age, family history, and genetics are significant risk factors. Lifestyle and heart health also play critical roles.
• Symptoms: Early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia include memory loss, confusion with time or place, difficulty completing familiar tasks, and changes in mood or personality.

Promoting Brain Health

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s or most forms of dementia, research suggests that certain lifestyle choices can support brain health and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Here are some tips to help maintain a healthy brain:

1. Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain and encourages the growth of new brain cells. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can support brain health. The Mediterranean diet, in particular, has been associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
3. Keep Your Mind Engaged: Mentally stimulating activities like puzzles, reading, learning new skills, and engaging in social interactions can help keep your brain sharp.
4. Get Quality Sleep: Poor sleep is linked to higher levels of beta-amyloid, a protein that forms harmful plaques in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
5. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can take a toll on brain health. Practice stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises.
6. Stay Socially Connected: Social engagement is associated with better brain health. Maintain strong connections with family and friends, join clubs or groups, and participate in community activities.

Supporting Alzheimer’s and Dementia Research and Care

Raising awareness is just one part of the equation. Supporting Alzheimer’s and dementia research and care is crucial in the fight against these diseases. Here are a few ways you can contribute:

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care in Fort Myers, FL

• Donate: Consider contributing to organizations that fund research, support services, and advocacy efforts for Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
• Volunteer: Offer your time to local Alzheimer’s and dementia associations, care facilities, or support groups.  In Fort Myers, the Dubin Center and Lee Health both offer caregiver support.
• Advocate: Use your voice to influence policy and increase funding for Alzheimer’s and dementia research and care programs.
• Participate in Clinical Trials: If eligible, participating in clinical trials can help advance our understanding of Alzheimer’s and dementia and lead to breakthroughs in treatment.  The Neuropsychiatric Research Center of SWFL offers clinical trials right here in Lee County.

Making a Difference Together

Alzheimer’s & Brain Health Awareness Month is an opportunity for us to unite in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.. By staying informed, making healthy lifestyle choices, and supporting ongoing research and care efforts, we can work towards a future where these conditions are no longer devastating diagnoses.

This June, let’s honor those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, support caregivers, and take proactive steps to protect our brain health. Together, we can make a significant impact and move closer to a world without these diseases.

For more information and resources, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website or your local brain health organization. Let’s make this month a turning point in the journey towards better brain health for all.  Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s and need more assistance with caring for them at home, contact Assisting Hands Home Care in Fort Myers.  At Assisting Hands, we have experience providing care for those with dementia.  Whether you are looking for respite, or your loved one needs 24/7 care, we are here to help.  Give us a call at 239-337-4263 to learn about the services we offer.