What to know about Alzheimer’s
This November, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America wants everyone to know that Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging; early detection matters, so it’s important to get memory screenings; and lifestyle choices can reduce risk.
Alzheimer’s disease currently affects more than 5.8 million Americans, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that number will grow to 14 million by 2060.
“Today, almost everyone knows someone who has been impacted by Alzheimer’s disease, but not everyone understands what it is or what they can do about it,” said Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., AFA president and CEO. “Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is an empowering reminder to take better care of our own health, and brain, and to get memory screenings, just as regularly and importantly as we do blood pressure and cholesterol checkups.”
Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging. It is a progressive, degenerative brain disorder characterized by plaques and tangles in brain tissue that impacts memory, thinking and language skills, and the ability to carry out simple tasks.
If people experience any of the following common symptoms, they should undergo a memory screening: Frequent memory loss that impacts their ability to function in daily life; becoming disoriented to time, place, and their immediate environment; struggling to complete familiar tasks such as brushing teeth; trouble following or initiating a conversation; repeatedly putting items in locations they don’t belong such as car keys in the freezer; or changes in mood and personality.
Early detection matters. Memory screenings are an important first step toward early detection of memory issues. Screenings are simple, quick, and noninvasive, consisting of a series of questions to gauge memory, language, thinking skills and other intellectual functions. AFA provides free, virtual memory screenings every Monday, Wednesday and Friday nationwide.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact AFA at 866-232-8484 or go to alzfdn.org.
People experiencing memory loss or cognitive decline may be reluctant, embarrassed or in denial about seeking help. Still, early detection of memory issues affords greater opportunities to begin medications sooner to slow the progression of disease symptoms, participate in a clinical trial, take advantage of therapeutic programming, and have an active role in developing one’s care, health, legal and financial plans.
Just as important, not all memory issues are caused by Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, urinary tract infections, sleep apnea and depression are examples of conditions that can cause memory impairments. All are treatable or curable, but they can’t be addressed if a person isn’t aware they exist.
Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce Alzheimer’s risk. Adopt a low-fat, heart-healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables and limit intake of red meats, fried and processed foods, salt and sugar; stay physically active because exercise increases blood and oxygen flow to the body and the brain; be socially engaged by volunteering and seeing friends and family; get quality sleep, 7-9 hours a night, as studies suggest that sleep plays a role in clearing metabolic waste out of the brain; reduce stress because it can cause brain inflammation; continue personal growth, like taking up dancing, learning a new language or reading more; avoid smoking, and limit alcohol consumption.
A person should not deal with Alzheimer’s alone. Whether one has Alzheimer’s, is a family caregiver or has a loved one with the disease, anyone can connect with support, answers and local resources through AFA’s Helpline at 866-232-8484 and web chat, available in more than 90 languages at alzfdn.org.
