Brain health: It’s a topic that many of us are concerned about. Most of us know someone who has dementia, and there’s good reason why experts call Alzheimer’s “the biggest health crisis facing the world today.” In fact, about 6.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and the number is expected to double by 2060.
Watching loved ones suffer from deteriorating brain health can be extremely challenging. It can also be uncomfortable to realize your own risk of developing dementia as statistics rise. So, what if you knew the disease was in your future? Would you act now?
The good news is that there are steps you can take today to reduce the risk of cognitive decline for you and your loved ones. It’s also important to remember that it is never too late to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Here are a few ways to boost brain health:
• Get good quality sleep. Six to eight hours of restful sleep allows the immune system to repair and renew the body. This is also true for the brain. When one doesn’t get enough sleep, inflammation is hard to control, which contributes to brain-related disease.
• Learn something new. You’ve heard the saying, “Use it or lose it.” Activities that challenge the brain, such as learning and intellectual hobbies, strengthen synapses between brain cells. Overall, this can improve brain health.
• Stay socially connected. According to the CDC, social isolation is associated with about a 50% increased risk of dementia. Maintaining relationships helps to provide a sense of purpose, and it helps to prevent cognitive decline.
• Take care of your mental health. Studies have shown that a history of depression increases the risk of cognitive decline. Reducing stress, participating in hobbies you enjoy, and finding support can help to improve mental health.
These steps to boost brain health are just a few ways to take action. If you are interested in taking care of your brain health or helping a loved one, resources are closer than you may think.
A Different Mindset Association, located in Hays, aims to support caregivers, provide education, network resources, and promote awareness about dementia. Currently, the group hosts caregiver support group meetings via Zoom and in person. The group also offers respite services for caregivers on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month.
To support the impactful resources that A Different Mindset Association provides, consider attending A Rock “N” Roll Night to Remember on March 22nd and enjoy an evening of music by Jimmy Dee and The Fabulous Destinations. The event will include a meal and drinks along with a crowded dance floor and a silent auction. Join A Different Mindset Association at the Ellis County Fairgrounds at 5:30 p.m. to support local dementia resources. Don’t forget to grab your tickets at https://www.adiffmindsetassoc.org/adm/fundraisers/.
Karissa Winkel is the family and community wellness agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.
