Individuals over the age of 65 are typically at higher risk for developing dangerous diseases in their golden years, including Alzheimer’s. As seniors age, the risk of developing this condition could begin to double. Therefore, seniors and their family caregivers should learn as much about Alzheimer’s as possible, including why the risk is higher among the elderly and tips that may stave off the disease.
Stages
Early-onset Alzheimer’s has signs that may appear between age 30 and 60, depending on the individual and the symptoms. However, it’s not as common as late-onset Alzheimer’s, which first appears in the mid-60s. Research suggests early-onset Alzheimer’s often involves a genetic component.
Risk Factors
Age is one of the top risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s, which is why it generally impacts adults older than 65. However, it may develop in people under the age of 60. Adults with family histories of Alzheimer’s or dementia are more at risk for this disease, which means you should learn more about your senior parent’s medical history as well as the medical histories of family members who have developed age-related conditions.
Brain injuries due to incidents such as falls, car accidents, or collisions while playing sports could also cause Alzheimer’s. Medical issues related to poor blood circulation could also put aging adults at higher risk for developing the disease.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care service families may trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Warning Signs
Some of the early symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s include confusion, difficulty remembering familiar places and people, problems with carrying on conversations or viewing visual images, and the inability to speak clearly. If you notice any warning signs, take your loved one to the doctor for medical screening and diagnosis.
This progressive condition destroys memory and various mental functions. As the condition worsens, it becomes more difficult to take on daily activities, including cooking, cleaning, bathing, doing laundry, operating motor vehicles, working, and more. However, staying physically and mentally active can protect brain health and stave off the disease.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age may benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elder care. Cincinnati, OH, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Lowering the Risk
There are some healthy steps seniors may take to reduce their risk of Alzheimer’s. For example, exercising more and monitoring eating habits could lower the odds of Alzheimer’s, even if your loved one is at higher risk for developing the disease. Healthy eating and physical activities may stave off conditions like cardiovascular disease and blood pressure, which are medical problems that could increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Other healthy lifestyle changes your parent should make include wearing clothing and accessories that lower the risk of head traumas caused by slips and falls, engaging in more social interaction, and taking up various activities that keep the brain active. Getting plenty of rest, eating a healthy diet, and staying socially engaged are among the best health choices to make when trying to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s may be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it may be just as challenging for families who don’t have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. Cincinnati Assisting Hands Home Care provides Alzheimer’s care seniors and their families may depend on. Our compassionate, highly trained caregivers help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives. We will work with you to create a customized home care plan that’s suited for your loved one’s unique needs. Call the Assisting Hands Home Care team at 513-993-5025 today.
