(Originally published in WOW Magazine,  June 2021)

Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia, which is a decline in mental ability that affects daily living.  Thinking, memory, and judgment become impaired making task like driving, paying bills, and other activities difficult.

One of the health observances during the month of June is Alzheimer and Brain Awareness Month.

Alzheimer is a heavy load on those suffering from the disease, the caregivers that assist them, and the overall health system.  Currently, 6 million people are living with Alzheimer’s.

This year it will cost the nation a whooping $355 billion for Alzheimer care.  In 30 years, the numbers will rise to 12.7 million people with Alzheimer’s and a cost of $1 trillion dollars.  Sadly 11 million Americans are providing unpaid care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

1 in 3 seniors die with dementia; that is more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.  During the pandemic, death from Alzheimer’s and other dementias increased by 16%.

Of course, this population was more vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 but it is likely that some of the contributing factors for the increase of deaths were loneliness, disrupted routines, and anxiety.

Risk of Alzheimer’s can be significantly reduced using strategies that reduce risk of other degenerative diseases.  The DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and the Mediterranean diet both have lots of research backing the effectiveness of reducing risk of degenerative diseases.

A hybrid, the MIND Diet, (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) has a specific protocol that limits red meat, reduces saturated fat, processed foods and sweets.  The MIND diet also limits and eliminates smoking.  Does any of that sound familiar?

Exercise is also suggested for neurodegenerative delay and care.  Exercise helps to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, improve balance, and heart health.  Additionally, it is beneficial for cognition and coordination.

For individuals who are experiencing early signs of dementia, there are other environmental suggestions that can be helpful, like reducing clutter, keeping a calendar, engaging in activities they enjoy, and having an evening ritual.  Discussing a plan of action with your loved one, in preparation for the potential progression of the disease is also recommended.

On June 20, which is longest day of light, known as the solstice, a spotlight will shine on the darkness of Alzheimer’s as people all around the world fight through a fundraiser of choice.  The fundraiser includes events in person and on-line.  For more information visit alz.org.

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