The Link between Dementia and Diet

The Medical News Today says dementia is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide. The debilitating disease has no cure; and available treatments only alleviate symptoms without slowing the progression of the disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dementia affects more than 55 million people globally, and 10 million people receive a diagnosis each year. Of that number it is estimated 60 – 70 percent have Alzheimer’s disease, and 6 million of them are Americans. Unfortunately those numbers are expected to rise to 139 million people across the globe by 2050.

Other rising numbers are in cases of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, which are all believed to increase a person’s risk for dementia. This is why researchers are not only trying to find a cure for Alzheimer’s and other dementias but ways to reduce people’s risk for the disease.

Dr. Christopher Weber, director of global science initiatives at the Alzheimer’s Association, noted that: “Research looking at the relationship between diet and cognition is well-established. There is strong evidence to suggest that what is good for the heart is good for the head, and we know a healthy diet is good for the heart.”

Researchers say one diet that appears to suggest better cognitive health is the MIND diet, (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay). It is similar to the Mediterranean diet with a heavy focus on green, leafy vegetables, nuts, berries, bean, whole grains, seafood, poultry and wine.

On the other hand, foods high in refined carbohydrates may cause an increase in the risk for Alzheimer’s. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports on a study linking processed meat products, like sausages, salami, and bacon with a relative increased risk of all dementias by 44% and Alzheimer’s disease by 52%.

At MorningStar at River Oaks, we have suites for both assisted living and the specialized dementia care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our goal is to be the best senior living Houston offers, providing residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Please contact us or visit our website for more information and be sure to ask about our Grand Opening Specials.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior Living Houston has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at River Oaks provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dementia-and-diet-is-there-a-link

Comments

Are You Ready for a Parent’s Unexpected Hospital Stay?

While many hospital stays are planned, older adults are more likely to require an unexpected trip to the hospital. When you have the luxury of time, it is easy to get prepared with the necessary information a parent needs when admitted to the hospital. It can be a different story if the trip is sudden. Medical experts say to ensure a loved one gets the proper care, it is important to see to it that the hospital has a complete medical history. Notes and documents can be completed and gathered now then updated as health changes occur. For starters, the hospital will want a “next of kin” contact for the patient so decide beforehand who that will be. Now go through the list of medications your parents take and make sure they are all together in one location. In the event of a medical emergency, you will be able to bring all their medications with you to ensure the hospital knows the most up-to-date medications and dosages. Another thing to gather information on regards your parents’ pre-...

Memory Care Communities Provide a Safe, Welcoming Home

If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, at some point, you may require professional help. The number one concern at a memory care community is to ensure the safety of the person as many of the disease’s symptoms place the person more at risk for accidents and other mishaps. Forgetfulness and confusion are some of the most recognizable signs of Alzheimer’s disease and can cause problems like forgetting to turn off a stove, getting lost in familiar areas or wandering. Other common issues in the early stages of the disease include vision/spatial issues and impaired reasoning and judgment, problem solving and difficulty in completing everyday tasks. Memory care communities are equipped to provide a safe, stable residential environment for seniors with memory impairment as well as provide meaningful activities to keep the person engaged. At most communities, the staff receives extensive training and information regarding the disease to better treat and ...

The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Apples for Senior Wellness

At senior living Kirkland , we’ve seen firsthand how small changes to a daily diet can make a big difference in overall health. One of the easiest—and tastiest—ways to support wellness is by adding apples to your routine. Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and other essential nutrients, apples can help fight inflammation, improve digestion, and boost heart health. Whether you prefer them fresh, baked, or blended into smoothies, apples are a smart addition to any meal plan. Natural Inflammation Fighters Apples contain quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that reduces chronic inflammation, which can worsen arthritis, heart disease, and other age-related conditions. Adding apples to your diet can help your body combat swelling and joint pain naturally. Some of our residents at senior housing Kirkland love keeping apple slices and almond butter on hand as an easy, anti-inflammatory snack. It’s both nutritious and satisfying and a great way to stay on top of wellness goals. Tip: Keep the peel o...

MorningStar Independent Living Blog

Search This Blog