Mayo Clinic describes Alzheimer's disease as a disorder characterized by a decline in mental abilities, including memory. This disease currently has no cure, but some scientists feel that its progression can often be slowed by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Making lifestyle changes might improve your overall health and possibly help keep cognition sharp as well.
Take Your Medication.
If you haven't already done so, have an evaluation by your physician to see if you should be taking Alzheimer's disease medication. If your doctor isn't well-versed in treating patients with Alzheimer's, ask for a referral to a geriatrician, neurologist or psychiatrist who treats these patients on a regular basis. Take all medications you have been prescribed, especially blood pressure and diabetes medicines. Have regular physical examinations.
Stay Physically Active.
Perform safe exercise on a regular basis. Strive to have at least 30 minutes of exercise 5 days a week. You may wish to try outdoor walking, swimming with a buddy, or follow an exercise plan that gives you plenty of aerobic activity. Take the active route for errands when possible, such as walking to visit a neighbor or taking the stairs inside an office.
Stay Mentally Active.
Challenge yourself mentally, but not to the point of stress. Take an alternate route home; solve crossword puzzles; try word puzzles; read difficult material, such as a book written in Olde English and engage in discussions of complex matters. Use different parts of your brain by performing activities such as writing with your non-dominant hand, walking backwards, or brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand. Listen to music you enjoy.
Eat a Healthy Diet.
Eat a healthy diet that limits fatty red meat and other saturated fat. Consume oily fish at least twice a week. Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables every day, making blueberries and pomegranate juice frequent choices. Incorporate walnuts and other nuts into your diet most days of the week. Use healthy oils for cooking, such as olive oil.
Eliminate Stress.
Eliminate unnecessary stress from your life. Do not allow worries to bother you to the point of anxiety or lost sleep. Practice living in the now and take a stress-management class if you need to. Consider yoga, meditation or counseling if stress remains a problem.
Maintain Social Ties.
Maintain your friendships and personal relationships. Make time for others and stay active in clubs or organizations of faith according to your interests. Consider volunteer work if you do not have enough social contact through family or friends.
