We can strengthen a healthy brain through participation in certain activities, or we can diminish areas of the brain through lack of use. For example, if you learn and practice a foreign language, you most likely will become more fluent. However, if you quit using that language, your vocabulary may decrease. Alzheimers disease is not a normal part of the aging process. According to the Mayo Clinic, only about 5 percent of people between the ages of 65 and 74 have a diagnosis of Alzheimers disease. Nearly 50 percent of people over the age of 85 have Alzheimers disease. According to the Alzheimers Association, symptoms of declining brain skills include: 1. Memory loss -- evidenced by forgetting things and frequently repeating yourself. 2. Difficulties with abstract thinking/problem solving -- such as balancing a checkbook. 3. New problems in speaking, reading, and writing. 4. Loss of planning and safety awareness/judgment -- poor judgment with money. 5. Difficulty performing/sequencing once-routine tasks, such as cooking and laundry. 6. Mood/personality changes -- stubbornness, withdrawal, agitation. 7. Confusion with time/place/date. If you have memory- or wellness-related questions, please plan to attend the monthly health talk in the Activity Room on Wednesday Nov. 20, at 2 p.m.
Posted on: Sun, 17 Nov 2013 17:25:44 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015