Alzheimer’s disease: What you can do to avoid it
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, is a progressive brain illness that affects memory and other mental functions. It is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors, and occurs because of an accumulation of abnormal protein in the brain. This abnormal protein is responsible for the decline and eventual death of brain cells.
“A brain affected by Alzheimer’s disease has fewer cells and fewer connections among cells compared to a healthy brain. As more brain cells die, Alzheimer’s disease can lead to shrinking of the brain,” says Dr Shahul Hameed, Senior Consultant in the Department of Neurology at the National Neuroscience Institute.
The symptoms of Alzheimer’s, which generally has mild, moderate and severe stages, may be confused with the normal ageing process in the early period. Mild symptoms include poor short-term memory, repeatedly asking the same questions, misplacing everyday objects, having trouble handling money, and mood changes.
As the illness progresses, patients may develop long-term memory loss, be unable to recognise family members and forget how to perform everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing and eating.
Can Alzheimer’s disease be prevented?
You are at greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease if you are over the age of 60 and have a parent or sibling who has the disease. You are also at greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease if you have had a severe head injury or stroke, and suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
While there is no evidence to suggest that Alzheimer’s disease can be prevented, research indicates that its risk is lower in individuals who are healthy and remain mentally, physically and socially active throughout their lives.
Therefore, you can lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by taking the following steps:
Maintain a healthy weight
Maintain normal blood pressure and blood sugar levels
Quit smoking
Drink alcohol in moderation
Be physically active for at least 150 minutes weekly, e.g. walk, swim, play tennis
Eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
Stay socially engaged and maintain a strong network of friends and family
Stay mentally active, e.g. read, write
Learn new skills, such as a foreign language, or a musical instrument
“Regular physical exercise can reduce a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by stimulating the brain’s ability to maintain old connections and make new ones,” says Dr Hameed. “Learning new things is also encouraged as this can help improve cognitive functions.”
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