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Minimize Forgetfulness: The expression “use it or lose it” most often applies to physical muscle strength and tone. But over the past few years, research has demonstrated that this adage is equally true for mental strength and tone. The mind is also a “muscle” and it needs to be worked to stay healthy. To keep your mental faculties strong, you need to use your brain. Reading , doing puzzles, engaging in conversation, learning a musical
Go out Volunteer! A recent study showed that older adults who do volunteer work up to three hours a week live happier and healthier lives. Those in the test assessed themselves in three categories: how well they functioned handling daily activities, how they rated their own health and if they felt depressed. Volunteers had better scores than non- volunteers. The important factor was doing the work. Being engaged in an activity that is meaningful and beneficial to others is a wonderful boost to the mind and spirit.
Bilingualism Delays Onset of Dementia : A new study from Ottawa, Canada found that people who are fully bilingual and speak both French and English every day for most of their lives can delay the onset of dementia by up to four years. The extra effort involved in using more than one language appeared to boost blood supply to the brain and ensure nerve connection remained healthy- two factors thought to help fight off dementia. In the process of using two languages, parts of your mind are being engaged and remain active.
Reduce Your Alzheimer's Risk: At this time, there is no known way to prevent Alzheimer's disease. While none of these products or substances have been proven to prevent Alzheimer's disease, researchers are studying the possibility that you may be able to reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or delay the onset of the disease by:
Taking a moderate amount of vitamin E and other antioxidants.
Increasing your intake of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 if you have elevated homocysteine levels.
Taking a daily dose of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as indomethacin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, or aspirin.
Taking statins which are used to lower cholesterol.
Talk with your doctor before using any of these products to prevent Alzheimer's disease. As we learn more about the causes of Alzheimer's disease, we also may learn more about how to prevent the disease. Drugs currently in development to prevent the formation of neurofibrillary "tangles" or amyloid plaques that damage the nerve cells in the brain may someday be used in people who are at risk for Alzheimer's. Research into a vaccine for Alzheimer's disease is ongoing.