With the introduction of COVID-19 vaccines across the country, many Americans are looking forward to resuming their lives and getting back to normal. This June, during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging South Carolinians of all ages to make brain health an important part of this transition.
“Last year has been extremely challenging for most Americans,” said Cindy Alewine, president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association South Carolina Chapter. “Chronic stress, as experienced during the pandemic, can affect memory, mood, and anxiety. When we return to normal, we encourage people to take steps to promote their own brain health and wellbeing. “
The association offers the following suggestions:
Follow the basics
Many experts agree that people can improve their brain health and reduce their risk of cognitive decline by adopting healthy lifestyle habits, preferably in combination, including:
- Exercising regularly to improve blood flow to the body and brain. There is strong evidence that regular physical activity is linked to better memory and thinking.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables to ensure a balanced diet. The Mediterranean and DASH diets in particular are linked to better cognitive function and also help reduce the risk of heart disease.
- For regular, uninterrupted sleep, adults should get at least seven hours of sleep each night, which is good for physical and mental health and helps clear waste from the brain.
- Stay socially and mentally active. Connect with friends and family and keep yourself occupied by solving a puzzle, playing strategy games, or learning a new language or musical instrument.
Return to normal at your own pace
Many Americans long for a return to normal life after the pandemic, while others are concerned. In fact, a recent survey found that almost half of adults (49%) feel uncomfortable when the pandemic ends, returning to face-to-face interactions. For those who are feeling anxious, the Alzheimer’s Association recommends taking small steps. It can also be important to set boundaries and share your preferences with others in your social circles.
Help others
Research shows that helping others in crisis can be an effective way to relieve stress and anxiety. A study published during the pandemic found that adults over 50 who volunteered about two hours a week had a significantly lower risk of death, higher levels of physical activity, and improved wellbeing. Consider doing volunteer work in your community, running errands or delivering meals to an elderly person, or donating to a popular cause such as a family home.
Separate and separate
While technology has kept us connected through COVID-19, it has also caused fatigue in many. Experts warn that excessive stimulation from our phones, computers, and social media sources can add to our already heightened levels of anxiety. To avoid overloading the technology, experts recommend limiting screen time, avoiding taking your phone everywhere, and disconnecting digital devices before bed.
Take control of your stress before it controls you
In small doses, stress teaches the brain to respond healthily to unexpected, inconvenient, or uncomfortable realities in everyday life.
However, prolonged or repeated stress can weaken and damage the brain, which can lead to serious health problems such as depression, anxiety disorders, memory loss, and an increased risk of dementia. Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers have been reported to be particularly vulnerable to physical and emotional stress. The Alzheimer’s Association offers tips on managing stress from caregivers such as meditation, exercise, listening to music, or getting back to a favorite activity that you missed during the pandemic.
“It’s important to know that there are steps we can take to reduce the stress and anxiety we may be feeling – and it’s okay to start with small steps,” Alewine said. “Do what works best for you and make it something you can hold onto.”
Alzheimer & Brain Awareness Month was launched in 2014 by the Alzheimer’s Association and is dedicated to promoting global discussion about the brain and Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. To find out more about the Alzheimer’s Association, available resources, and how you can get involved in helping, visit alz.org.
source https://dailyhealthynews.ca/june-is-alzheimers-and-brain-awareness-month-community-news/
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