Alzheimer’s disease is a condition in which a person develops dementia, a gradual decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and even social skills, changes that together affect a person’s overall functioning.
It’s estimated that approximately 1.3 million people in Mexico live with Alzheimer’s disease, accounting for 60% to 70% of dementia diagnoses, and most commonly affecting people over 65.
Given the nature of this condition, Dr. Alonso Morales Rivero, behavioral neurologist and neuropsychiatrist at ABC Medical Center, offers the following recommendations for people who’ve already been diagnosed to help slow its progression.
A Balanced Diet
This may sound a bit obvious and repetitive, but as with many other conditions, following a Mediterranean-style diet, one higher in certain fats like olive oil, lower in animal protein, with moderate caloric intake, and even better spacing between meals, has been linked to beneficial effects on the progression of Alzheimer’s-related dementia.
While dementia itself is irreversible, proper nutrition can help improve a person’s overall health and quality of life.
Physical Activity
A sedentary lifestyle harms health in general, but for Alzheimer’s patients specifically, several studies show that aerobic activity, meaning exercise that raises heart rate, improves cognitive scores and the ability to carry out daily activities.
Social Engagement
Isolation is particularly harmful for someone living with Alzheimer’s. It’s important to encourage a supportive social circle that allows the person to take part in simple activities, such as playing cards, going out for breakfast, or anything involving time with others.
Improving Cognitive Activity
Alzheimer’s-related dementia affects a person’s cognitive abilities, which is why it’s so important for patients to receive ongoing cognitive stimulation, meaning they should learn something new each day or take part in activities designed to stimulate brain activity.
Examples of helpful activities include learning to play a musical instrument, learning a new language, or joining a book club.
Staying Connected with Your Medical Team
When it comes to Alzheimer’s treatment, adherence is extremely important, meaning taking medications exactly as prescribed by specialists and attending every scheduled appointment. It’s important to understand that consistent follow-up plays a major role in determining whether the condition progresses favorably or not.
Currently, there’s no treatment that cures Alzheimer’s disease, but following the doctor’s recommendations and engaging in activities that support cognitive health are powerful tools for managing it, notes Dr. Morales.
At ABC Medical Center’s Neurology Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
