According to recent data, approximately 5.8 million Americans live with Dementia. The condition affects so many people in variety of ways. June is Alzheimer’s and Brain awareness month and bringing awareness to the signs and symptoms can often lead to early interventions and treatments that can slow the progression of the disease.

Cognitive decline can be predicted long before the first lapses in memory or behavioral changes. Neurological studies suggest that motor changes, such as a slower gait and other gait abnormalities, represent some of the earliest signs of impending cognitive impairment. Other symptoms include forgetfulness, irritability and mood swings, difficulty in communication and handling complex tasks, and changes in taste and/or smell.

There are ways to reducing your risk of developing cognitive decline. The National Institute on Aging developed a set of healthy lifestyle factors that were connected to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Some of the items on that list include-

· At least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity

· Not smoking

· Following the MIND diet

· Engagement in late-life cognitive activities, such as volunteering or hobbies that are personally meaningful

Here are the components of the MIND diet, which focuses on plant-based foods linked to the prevention of dementia. It includes foods from these ten categories:

· Leafy green vegetables, at least 6 servings/week

· Other vegetables, at least 1 serving/day

· Berries, at least 2 servings/week

· Whole grains, at least 3 servings/day

· Fish, 1 serving/week

· Poultry, 2 servings/week

· Beans, 3 servings/week

· Nuts, 5 servings/week

· Wine, 1 glass/day

· Olive oil

The MIND diet also focuses on limiting the following foods: red meat, sweets, cheese, butter/margarine, and fast/fried food. Although the serving recommendations for berries and vegetables are lower than that recommended on DASH, these modest amounts may help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. If you have questions about how to get started making changes in your diet, schedule an appointment with the Registered Dietitian at Rangeley Health and Wellness.

In addition to making lifestyle changes, evidence indicates that medical providers may be able to help delay or minimize patients’ symptoms of dementia through prescribed physical therapy and exercise. Physical therapy helps patients with cognitive disease maintain function longer and at a higher level, which ultimately improves their quality of life.

Rangeley Health and Wellness has a mission to support the needs of those with cognitive/memory impairment. Our physical therapists are well versed in promoting function, strength, and safety training that can help support those with cognitive and functionality changes. Our physical therapists and personal trainers can assist you in developing an exercise routine customized to your needs to help you maintain strength, balance and agility. For more information and to set up an appointment, call Ascent Rangeley Lakes Rehab at 207-864-3332 extension 3.

Our FREE functional fitness classes for seniors take place twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays at 10 am, and are taught by professional therapy assistants to ensure safe strengthening exercise routines are tailored to the group needs.

HARC is a program of Rangeley Health and Wellness that gives caregivers a break from the day to day demands by providing a fun and engaging day for homebound seniors. Daily activities include music, art and crafts, hot lunch, group activities, puzzles and games, fitness and nutrition, guest speakers and caregiver seminars, all based on the preferences of your loved one. For more information please contact Heidi at (207) 864-9777.

For the month of June- sport your purple gear to show your support and bring awareness Alzheimer’s and cognitive decline. Should you decide to go further and show your support on a national level, to www.alz.org where you can donate, take action by getting involved in events, or purchase some purple gear that spreads awareness. Perhaps you can challenge yourself by making one personal healthful lifestyle change this month, to reduce your risk of cognitive changes.