Central Florida Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles of the Villages
Related Articles
by ArchWell Health
Let’s face it, we can all be forgetful at times. Whether it’s misplacing keys or blanking on a name, these are the typical hiccups of everyday life. But as we age, memory lapses can sometimes feel more alarming. The good news? For most people, these changes are just a natural part of aging, but they could signal something more serious, like dementia or Alzheimer’s. So, how can you tell the difference? Let’s break it down.
Changes in mood and personality
Have you noticed someone pulling away from social events or losing interest in things they once loved? It may seem small, but sometimes it’s a big deal. People dealing with dementia or Alzheimer’s might avoid group activities because keeping up with conversations feels overwhelming. Little by little, fear, anxiety, depression, or confusion can creep in and affect their everyday mood. If these shifts sound familiar, it’s a good idea to get a primary care provider involved.
Everyday memory lapses
We all lose the remote occasionally—it’s no big deal. But when memory issues start affecting everyday life, it gets concerning. Someone dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia may struggle with tasks they’ve performed many times before, like making dinner or paying bills. They might even get mixed up about what day, year, or season it is. Another thing to watch out for? Risky decisions or choices that seem out of character.
New problems with speaking or writing
We all find ourselves at a loss for words occasionally. But when someone starts calling a clock a “round thing” or has trouble naming everyday items, it could be a sign of dementia. Repeating the same phrases over and over or stopping mid-sentence without knowing how to continue are other potential red flags. On top of that, some people may struggle with visual or spatial awareness—like misjudging distances or getting confused by images. If any of these rings a bell, it’s probably time to chat with your primary care provider.
Tips for managing Alzheimer’s
Eat smart for brain health
Eating a healthy diet isn’t just great for your body—it does wonders for your brain too! Foods packed with Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can give your cognitive function a nice boost and help lower the chances of issues like diabetes and heart disease. And for folks dealing with Alzheimer’s, smart food choices can help address weight loss and make swallowing easier as the condition progresses.
Stay active
Exercise isn’t just about staying fit—it can also do amazing things for the mind. Regular physical activity helps improve cognitive function, regulate sleep, manage mood swings, and even reduce sundowning symptoms. Plus, staying active keeps you on your feet, lowers your risk of falls, and helps you manage everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, or getting dressed.
Prioritize Sleep
A good night’s sleep is more important than you think. Sleep issues often pop up for people with Alzheimer’s, making other symptoms even tougher to handle. Whether it’s sleeping too much, struggling with insomnia, or dealing with sundowning episodes, getting into a steady sleep routine can make a real difference.
Explore treatment options
While currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are medications that can help manage symptoms and even slow things down a bit. The sooner you start looking into treatment options, the better. It’s a lot easier to plan and make decisions early in the progression of the disease. At this stage, it’s also critical to make sure your care team understands your wishes about medication, therapy, and long-term care plans.
Take charge of your health
An Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis can feel daunting but catching it early and adopting good habits can make a huge difference. We recommend getting a dementia screening once you reach age 65 and sticking to routines that boost your well-being—like eating well, staying active, and keeping an eye on your mental health. By staying informed and being proactive, you can approach aging with confidence and care. For more quick tips and helpful insights — scan the QR code below.
Visit ArchWellHealth.com/LiveWell or call (941) 297-2126 to learn more and become a member.
ArchWellHealth.com
941.297.2123
