Alzheimer’s Disease & Brain Health

By now, most of us have heard the horrifying statistics that nearly 6 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of demetia, and that number is expected to triple by 2050. However, many people don’t realize that out of that staggering number, most of the individuals are women. To make it resonate even further, about 3.6 million are women.

The reasons for this ratio are not concrete, but many researchers attribute it to lifestyle factors such as stress and hormonal imbalance. It is becoming better known that genetics may play a role in the disease, as well as toxins, chemical exposure, and lifestyle choices (diet and sedentary lifestyle), but there are things you can do to stave off the progression and onset of the condition.

Alzheimer’s Disease is not curable with medications. Some drugs are thought to deter the progression of the disease, but now, research is showing that it might not be an optimal treatment long term as the plaque that forms may be more of a protective measure. Taking matters into your own hands and living a healthy lifestyle are essential tools, and the earlier you start, the better.

Interventional Research
A few years ago, a cognitive study incorporated an interventional methodology to take a multi-domain approach to dementia prevention. The trial called the FINGER Study was conducted over a two-year period in Finland by a team of healthcare providers.

With over 1200 participants, the randomized tests were done on a control group and a multi-domain intervention group. The control group was given regular health advice on a weekly basis, while the intervention group was given tactical exercise, diets, and performance studies three to four times per week.

The multi-domain intervention group’s protocol consisted of:
• Dietary guidance
• Physical activity
• Cognitive training and socialization
• Intensive monitoring and management of metabolic and vascular risk factors

The study concluded that it is possible to prevent cognitive decline through physical exercise, diet, cognitive training and socialization, and lower metabolic risk factors.

Diet
All diets should be customized to each person’s needs, but it’s apparent that diets high in sugar and processed carbohydrates are contributing to neurodegenerative disease states by increasing inflammation in the brain and body. Eating a diet rich in healthy fats, fish, vegetables, and berries is optimal. Limiting alcohol consumption is also very important for brain health. It is well documented that alcohol shrinks the brain.

Aston Gardens offers a memory care facility on their Tampa Bay Campus.

Aston Gardens
Aston Gardens is also one of the most highly sought after communities, due to their dedication to senior needs, their commitment to enriching the lives of each resident and their families by providing personalized care, welcoming living spaces, and superior amenities within three distinct tiers, which include independent living, assisted living, and memory care facilities.

Independent living focuses on being as active, healthy and independent as you want to be, but never alone. Choose from one of our independent living apartment homes, or a luxury for-sale villa and enjoy the all-inclusive carefree, maintenance-free lifestyle at America’s award-winning senior living community.

Assisted living offers residents a lifestyle of personal attention and help with activities of daily living, including bathing, grooming, dressing, taking medications and eating properly. Our focus is on health and wellness, helping residents to be as independent as possible with a personalized care plan that includes engaging social activities for a healthy body, enlightened mind and renewed spirit. With beautifully appointed assisted living suites, assisted living at The Inn is easy with the Aston Gardens One Price Personalized Plan. There are no confusing care levels to think about and our residents pay one low price for services.

SHINE® Memory Care offers a private special needs neighborhood for residents with memory care related issues. Residents needing Alzheimer’s care and other dementia care receive the very best attention and services in a supportive, compassionate and secure setting. Based on each individual’s needs and capabilities, the professionals at Aston Gardens At Tampa Bay create a personalized plan to help our residents live life as fulfilling as possible, in a secure and comfortable environment.

Want to know why so many people choose to live at Aston Gardens? It’s the resort-style life, the caring staff, friendly community, and attention to detail that makes Aston Gardens surpass expectations.

Aston Gardens At Tampa Bay is a luxury senior living community offering the best combinations of active-adult lifestyles and personalized care services. Wake up inspired each morning with a wealth of amenities, activities, and support at your doorstep. Explore the stylish Grande Clubhouse and indulge in our unique lifestyle services: Sensations Dining, Celebrations Activities and Dimensions Wellness. Let our dedicated team members handle transportation, maintenance, housekeeping, concierge services and more. Here you will find compassionate people engaged in enriching the lives of seniors, ensuring their needs are taken care of every day. Aston Gardens At Tampa Bay offers the best value in affordable, carefree, senior living. Everything we do is focused on providing you the very best in senior living. It’s all right here!

Now is the time to schedule your personalized tour! See why so many people want to call Aston Gardens their home!

Call 813-343-4673 today or visit astongardens.com.