November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.
Dr. Pierre-Pierre discussed Alzheimer’s and the symptoms, effects and prevention on Thursday, November 4, in his FB life. The following are the highlights of his talk.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. When we think of dementia, we think of memory loss. It is a progressive disease beginning with memory loss at the very beginning and possibly leading to loss of the ability to carry on a conversation and the response to the environment. Alzheimer’s disease involves parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language. It affects a person’s ability to carry out daily living.
Who has Alzheimer’s disease?
In 2020, approximately 5 million Americans were living with Alzheimer’s.
In 2020, approximately 5 million Americans were living with Alzheimer’s.
Younger people can get Alzheimer’s, but it isn’t as likely.
The number of Alzheimer’s patients doubles every 5 years beyond the age of 65, which is an alarmingly high rate of increase.
Symptoms typically first appear after age 60 and increases with age.
What do we know about Alzheimer’s?
Age plays a major role.
Genetics may play a big role, but there is not enough data to support this as of yet.
There is evidence that a healthy lifestyle may help keep you from getting Alzheimer’s.
Adequate physically activity, diet, limited alcohol consumption, and not smoking may help prevent Alzheimer’s.
Growing evidence that healthy behavioral changes that help prevent cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure, may also help prevent cognitive decline.
What are the warning signs of possible Alzheimer’s disease?
First, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging! Please do not think that Alzheimer’s is just part of getting older, it is NOT!
Memory problems are one of the first warning signs of possible Alzheimer’s disease.
Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as getting lost, repeating the same question over and over, trouble handling paying your bills, difficulty completing tasks at home or work, decrease in judgement, misplacing things and unable to retrace steps to find them, changes in mood, personality or behavior. Even if you have some or all of these signs, it doesn’t always mean you have Alzheimer’s disease. It is best to get evaluated.
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the top 10 leading causes of death in the US.
Top 6 leading cause of death in adults.
Top 6 leading cause of death in adults.
Top 5 leading cause of death in adults age 65 and older.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s cases are on the rise.
The good news is we have ways to prevent it. Alzheimer’s disease can be emotionally and financially devastating. So prevention is the best thing we can do for a start.
Lifestyle modifications such as physical activity, eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking are things that each of us can do to help prevent this devastating disease. Losing your mind is a terrible thing. Being active and living a healthy lifestyle is the best form of prevention.
If you know someone who has any of the signs of Alzheimer’s, please help them get evaluated immediately. Early intervention can help.
Dr. Pierre-Pierre at Hobe Sound Primary Care is available to assist in helping you create a healthier lifestyle and live your best life!
Call to schedule an appointment today.
