SECRETS TO AGING WELL

A major key to aging well is exercise of some type, not necessarily a gym, but housework or gardening for at least 45 mins a majority days of the week can be of benefit. New studies suggest adults that are not socially isolated - those with family or friends close by or other meaningful relationships like children, grandchildren etc. tend to perform better than older adults who are socially isolate.

 THINGS THAT CAN AFFECT YOUR ABILITY TO AGE WELL

Adults with chronic disease such as diabetes, hypertension, those who smoke or are morbidly obese BMI (Body Mass index) over 35.

 THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND DEMENTIA

Alzheimer’s disease is a specific type of dementia and the most common kind in the United States. However, dementia can be caused by vascular reasons (e.g. stroke) or Parkinson-related dementia.

HOW TO DETERMINE DEMENTIA FROM NORMAL AGING AND FORGETFULNESS?

Dementia must involve both memory and decline in function. Examples would be impaired memory (repetitive questions, getting lost while driving etc.) and decline in one’s ability to balance a checkbook or suddenly cannot use electronic device or forgets how to bath or dress oneself.  Normal aging may involve occasional difficulty recalling names, places, etc. but likely with time can remember.

WARNING SIGNS OF DEMENTIA

Getting loss while driving to a familiar spot. Love ones or friends noticing in a short time span that someone is asking repetitive questions. Someone who always managed the finances and all of sudden is bouncing checks.

If any of the signs above are noted, you should take the patient to primary care doctor or Geriatrician if one is in the area.

 SOME PREVENTATIVE OPTIONS FOR DEMENTIA

Research studies only show two things that are preventive activities: (1) Exercise majority days of the week, at least 4 days, for at least 30 mins of aerobic resistance training has been shown to be protective. (2) According to one study, learning another language later in life can be protective from dementia.