As the population ages, concerns about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease continue to rise. While there is no cure for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease, there is evidence that lifestyle choices play a role. After age and genetics (Family history), the seven key risk factors appear to be diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, lack of physical exercise, smoking, depression, and low education. The good news is that these issues are something that we can do something about!
Let’s start at the beginning. Normal aging is associated with changes in cognitive functioning, including some slowing of brain processing speeds and some loss of memory. Not all memory problems are signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, but they do need to be evaluated. Evaluations typically include a careful history from the patient and their family/friends, a neurological exam, blood studies to rule-out low thyroid, Vit B12, folate, thiamine, anemia, kidney, diabetes and other diseases. Heart disease and infection are also considered.
Careful assessment for depression, visual or hearing loss, and review of medications is also important as many medications – alone and in combination – can effect alertness and cognitive functioning. Often an MRI is obtained. History of recent hospitalizations is also an important consideration. Not all memory problems are Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, but may be early signs of cognitive problems. Less common forms of dementia may present with problems other than with memory. Memory loss that is significant and especially when accompanied by difficulties in recalling new information, reasoning, language, and changes in personality must be evaluated. Activities requiring calculation and planning, such as filling a pill box or balancing a check book may be one of the earliest signs of impairment.
Now you know more about brain changes and that there are things you can do now to decrease your risk of having problems as you age. Take a look at the posting about dietary changes you can make starting today to “Fuel” your brain with premium instead of contaminated fuel (junk foods and those contributing to inflammation)!