Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease pose significant challenges to aging populations, including our parents, affecting their cognitive and motor functions. Because neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are generally progressive and currently incurable, researchers and medical professionals alike are aware of the potential risks. There is a strong emphasis on lifestyle changes to alleviate and improve brain health for parents and other seniors. .
6 easy ways to protect your parents’ brain health: Simple lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease (Photo courtesy of Prime Women)
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that neurological diseases are the leading cause of disability and death in older people, with prevalence and associated costs increasing significantly. In the absence of disease-modifying treatments, these lifestyle change strategies offer a promising approach to reduce risk and improve quality of life in older adults.
There is evidence that certain lifestyle changes can reduce your risk and delay the onset of these conditions, so here are some expert tips for parents and other older adults.
1. Adjust your diet:
Dr PN Renjen, Senior Consultant Neurology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, suggested in an interview with HT Lifestyle: The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and fish, is associated with reduced cognitive decline. Regular consumption of leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish provides essential nutrients that fight oxidative stress and inflammation, factors linked to neurodegeneration. ”
Emphasizing on a brain-healthy diet, Sama Beg, Chief Product Officer, Emoha, said: “A healthy diet is the foundation of brain health. Adequate intake of all nutrients, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, helps nourish the brain. Some diets, such as the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet, focus on eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats. For older adults, caregivers can help by planning meals that meet these dietary recommendations and address their specific nutritional needs.
2. Physical activity:
“Regular exercise is critical to maintaining cognitive function. Aerobic exercise such as walking, swimming, and cycling increases blood flow to the brain and promotes neuroplasticity. Resistance training and balance Exercise improves overall health and reduces the risk of falls, which is important for maintaining independence in older people,” Dr. PN Renjen asserted.
Yoga for seniors not only boosts mental health but also prevents joint strains, osteoarthritis and other discomforts (Photo by Vlada Karpovich from Pexels)
Emphasizing the power of physical activity, Sama Beg revealed: Introducing daily activities such as walking, swimming, aquabics, brisk walking, and cycling into older adults can significantly improve cognitive function. In addition, strength training and balance exercises can improve a person’s general condition, reduce the risk of falls, and have a positive impact on the quality of life. Seniors should choose exercise that is fun rather than dangerous. Caregivers are well placed to motivate patients to participate in physical activity and help them establish consistent movement patterns. ”
3. Cognitive training and mental stimulation:
Dr. PN Lenjen says, “Engaging in intellectually stimulating activities, such as puzzles, reading, and learning new skills, can increase cognitive reserve. Lifelong learning and mental training strengthen neural connections and It helps maintain cognitive function and may delay the onset of neurodegenerative symptoms.”
Are your elderly parents struggling? Try a holistic lifestyle strategy for health and well-being (Image: Freepik)
Sama Beg adds, “Continuous learning and acquiring new skills can increase brain plasticity, or the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections.” Solving puzzles, reading, and more Activities that involve social interaction help keep your mind sharp. These group activities and club memberships for seniors provide the necessary mental stimulation and social engagement that is so important for cognitive health. Caregivers can help older adults participate in activities such as joining clubs, social events, and community service. ”
4. Social engagement:
Dr. PN Lenjen said, “Maintaining social connections and participating in community activities provides emotional support and mental stimulation. Social interaction is associated with lower rates of cognitive decline. It can help reduce feelings of isolation and depression, which are risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases.”
5. Nursing care:
Sama Beg said: Caregivers are often the primary support system for older adults and play an important role in promoting and supporting healthy habits. Additionally, building strong relationships, fostering trust, and providing encouragement can go a long way in helping older adults adapt and be open to continuing with these lifestyle changes. Additionally, caregivers need to be mindful of the unique challenges they each face and adjust their approach accordingly to ensure their strategies are practical and sustainable. By creating a supportive environment that prioritizes quality medical care, caregivers can help older adults live a lifestyle that reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. ”
Caregivers are often the primary support system for older adults and play an important role in promoting and supporting healthy habits. (Photo courtesy of Judita Tamosiunaite)
6. Sleep hygiene:
Dr. PN Lenjen emphasized that quality sleep is essential for brain health, saying, “Poor sleep patterns and sleep disorders are associated with increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases.Regular sleep schedule. Establishing a restful sleep environment can improve cognitive function and overall health.”
Adopting these lifestyle changes can help parents and older adults reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and promote a higher quality of life. Regular evaluations by a health care professional can further tailor interventions to individual needs and optimize long-term outcomes.
