Understanding Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer Disease (A,D,) affects 5.3 million Americans; with 5.1 million of those affected being 65 and over. There are 200,000 Americans affected by early onset Alzheimer’s, which means they are under the age of 65 when first diagnosed.

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s and no known way to stop its progression; thus, it is important to understand the facts and support research in hopes of a cure.

Alzheimer’s by the Numbers

• By 2030 an estimated 76 million will have dementia, the majority caused by Alzheimer’s
• Women represent 3.2 million of those affected (2/3 of those diagnosed)
• Every 67 seconds someone is affected with Alzheimer’s Disease
• Only 33% of those who are diagnosed are aware that they have the disease
• Alzheimer’s is the 6^th leading cause of death in America & the 5^th leading cause of death in those age 65 and over

Proactive Steps to Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer’s

Below are proactive ways to help reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s:

Reduce Your Risk

• Exercise Your Brain – Keeping your mind active is important. Challenge your brain with activities such as reading, word puzzles, learning a new language, crafts or any mind stimulating actions.
• Socialize – Social stimulation is very important in reducing both your risk of A.D. and depression. Conversation and social activities stimulate your mind.
• Exercise – Your brain needs oxygen and blood to keep it healthy. Exercising increases the oxygen and blood flow to your brain, keeping your brain healthy while also deterring other diseases that could increase your risk of Alzheimer’s.
• Fuel Your Mind & Body – Recent studies have concluded that what you eat may help you reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s; in particular the MIND diet was researched at Rush University & Medical Center and found to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.
• Rest – Lack of sleep has been found to affect cognitive abilities. Get enough rest and address sleep issues such as apnea and insomnia.
• Stop Smoking – Smoking has been proven to have an effect on the brain, reducing cognizance greatly. Decrease your risk of not only Alzheimer’s but many other diseases associated with smoking, by quitting.

Find out more facts about Alzheimer’s in this free brochure provided by the Alzheimer’s Association.

Live Your Life is very active in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. We are here to help you Live Your Life WHILE AGING HEALTHY.

Dr. Eva Norman
President & Founder
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Live Your Life Physical Therapy, LLC

Cited Works:

Alzheimer’s Association – Alzheimer’s Facts