June is Brain Health Awareness month and NWRC is recognizing the occasion by encouraging the community to engage in simple lifestyle changes to maintain brain health throughout the lifespan. According to a well-publicized 2017 study from the Lancet Commission, up to 40% of all dementias are preventable through potentially modifiable risk factors. These include quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy diet. However, less obvious activities such as participating in social interactions and treating hearing loss can also improve cognition.
“There are lifestyle and dietary approaches that can improve thinking, improve blood flow to the brain and build new brain cells” says Dr. Nancy Isenberg, MD, MPH, director of Swedish’s Center for Healthy Aging, “so when people start exercising, eating better and taking their medications as prescribed, their thinking often improves.” It is important to work with your healthcare team to understand your unique risk factors for developing dementia, as well as review any medications or supplements that you may be taking since some may have effects on memory and thinking.
To learn more about brain health visit: http://www.globalcouncilonbrainhealth.org/
To learn more about reducing risk factors, you may find the following helpful: Can I Prevent Dementia? (alzheimers.gov)
About Northwest Regional Council:
NWRC has been helping older adults, people with complex medical conditions, and their families obtain resources and assistance that promote optimal health, well-being, and independence to improve quality of life in Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties since 1971. For more information visit nwrcwa.org
Written By:
Kelsey Lovik, Dementia Program Specialist
Media Contact:
Bethany Chamberlin, PhD
Health and Human Services Planner
Bethany.Chamberlin@dshs.wa.gov