Post Date December, 03 2023
Alzheimer's disease is something that many people are worried about when they get old. So, how to prevent it? Experts say an optimistic mindset can help prevent dementia from occurring. From a mental health perspective, the goal of preventing Alzheimer's disease is not only to prevent dementia, but also to have a healthy and happy mental life.
Firstly, engage in more activities and use your brain, persistently engage in mental and physical labor to the best of your abilities, and adhere to appropriate physical exercise. A study has found that the more knowledge a person learns during their youth and the more they enjoy thinking, the lower their risk of developing dementia as they age. The brain becomes smarter the more it is used.
Secondly, have a balanced diet and nutrition, do not smoke or drink alcohol. Carbohydrates, plant fiber, fat and protein should be properly taken in, coarse grains and fine grains should be taken in, animal protein and plant protein should be taken in, and the nutritional value of animal protein is higher. The elderly can choose fish and poultry preferentially, while fat intake should try to choose oils with high unsaturated fat acid. As for cigarettes and alcohol, it's better not to touch them.
Thirdly, learn to communicate with family and friends, maintain close relationships with family members, speak your heart out, and reduce mutual speculation. To maintain a healthy and positive attitude and actively participate in social activities, we can greatly reduce the breeding of negative emotions such as loneliness and depression. At the same time, maintain curiosity, find joy in life, and participate more in group activities.
Fourth, actively prevent and treat the primary body and brain diseases that may cause dementia, such as diabetes. Research has found that insulin resistance in the brain may be an important factor in causing dementia in the elderly. Therefore, controlling blood sugar, reducing weight, lowering blood lipids, blood pressure, etc. also play a crucial role.
Fifth, when you find that your memory is not as good as before, be willing to admit it. Tell your family and friends about your current situation for help and understanding. Daily life should be arranged in a regular and simple manner, and some labels, cards, notepads, etc. can be made to help with memory. Maintain contact with others and the external environment. You can go to the doctor to see if treatment is needed.
For the elderly who have already fallen ill, the goal and focus of prevention and treatment is to improve the overall quality of life of the family.
Caregivers of dementia patients should receive appropriate training to enhance their ability and skills in dealing with dementia patients. The care of dementia patients should be jointly completed by the patient's relatives, caregivers, and doctors. Actively treat non cognitive symptoms of dementia patients using methods such as medication and behavioral therapy.
Caregivers should work in shift work, or use the method of letting patients stay in the daytime hospital, so that the caretakers can rest. You can also organize communication groups for caregivers, engage in regular activities, and relieve stress. You can also seek necessary social assistance.
