If you are over 65 or approaching this age range, you may experience slight memory loss from time to time, could it be simple oversights or the first signs of an illness? This little guide should help you take stock.
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Alzheimer’s disease: what is it?
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease, that is to say one that progresses and worsens gradually. It is characterized in particular by the presence of plaques in the brain, which cause the death of certain neurons. Alzheimer’s affects mood, memory, behavior and language to varying degrees depending on the stage of the disease.
Which is completely normal
As you age, your brain, like many organs and muscles in your body, can lose a little tone – and that’s perfectly normal! Here are some common signs to watch out for:
• Occasionally look for your words in a conversation;
• Do not remember the first name of a former colleague;
• Find your coat elsewhere than on the coat rack (on the sofa, for example);
• A decrease in your attention span;
• Forget the details of an event that took place several months ago.
If in doubt, probe your surroundings. If your loved ones are not worried about your cognitive state, it’s probably because everything is fine! You could also ask your health care professional for more information.
Signs to watch for
If, however, you notice unusual behavior while performing familiar tasks, or the presence of the following signs , it is better to make an appointment with a doctor to have some tests.
• Forget the conversations held during a recent event or the names of your loved ones;
• Find a common object (your glasses, for example) in an incongruous place like the fridge;
• experience unusual and sudden mood swings;
• Lose interest in everyday activities.
Maintain good cognitive health. To prevent a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease as much as possible, you will need to pay close attention to your cognitive health.
Exercise regularly. Aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming or running can oxygenate the brain in addition to being beneficial for your cardiovascular health, your stress level and your mood in general.
Get enough sleep. Fatigue could have detrimental results on your memory.
Indulge in intellectually stimulating activities. Crossword puzzles, chess, reading, gardening and playing a musical instrument are just some of the activities that keep your brain active.
Eat a healthy diet. Certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies could harm your brain. Make sure you eat a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3-rich proteins like oily fish.
Reduce your stress level . Stress is harmful to the brain, but also to overall health. Practice relaxing activities like yoga, do breathing exercises and avoid situations that cause you anxiety as much as possible. Do not isolate yourself and mix with your loved ones as often as you can.
Brain aging is inevitable and completely normal. However, it is important to differentiate between the signs of aging and those of a degenerative disease like Alzheimer’s.
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