ALZHEIMER’S & BRAIN HEALTH
What Is
Alzheimer’s Disease?
Common
Myths About Alzheimer’s
- Myth:
“Memory loss is an inevitable part of aging.”
Truth: While some forgetfulness can accompany normal aging, frequent confusion, losing track of dates, or repeatedly asking the same questions may signal early Alzheimer’s rather than “being old”. - Myth:
“Alzheimer’s only affects the elderly.”
Truth: Though risk increases after age 65, early-onset Alzheimer’s can appear in people in their 50s, even late 40s, often misdiagnosed as stress or depression. - Myth:
“Nothing can be done to prevent Alzheimer’s.”
Truth: While there’s no cure, lifestyle choices—like brain-healthy diets, regular exercise, and mental stimulation—can lower risk and delay symptom onset.
Recognizing
Early Signs
Identifying Alzheimer’s early allows
families to plan care and access support. Look for:
- Memory
lapses beyond “forgetting names.” missing appointments, repeating
conversations, or needing reminders for routine tasks.
- Disorientation
in familiar places. getting lost getting back home or confusion navigating
well-known neighbourhoods.
- Difficulty
performing daily tasks like struggling to follow a recipe for jollof rice
or forgetting steps in the suya-grilling process.
- Changes
in mood & personality. sudden anxiety, agitation, or withdrawal from
social activities once enjoyed like attending church.
If you notice these in a loved one,
encourage them to see a healthcare provider for a simple cognitive screening. Early
evaluation can rule out reversible causes, like vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, and
confirm Alzheimer’s.
Supporting
Brain Health
While there’s no known cure, lifestyle choices can lower risk
and delay symptom onset. Lifestyle habits to inculcate to boost brain health
include:
1. Nutrition & Diet
- Local
Brain-Boosting Foods: such as ogi (pap), fish-based soups, leafy green
vegetables, etc.
- Reduce
Processed Carbs & Sugary Drinks: Sweetened zobo, bottled malt drinks,
and refined rice spikes blood sugar, increasing Alzheimer’s risk over
time.
2. Physical Activity
- Aim
for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week e.g. brisk walking
around the compound.
3. Mental Stimulation
- Engage
the Brain Daily:
• Play Ayo or Oware with grandchildren.
• Read aloud to elders from local newspapers or scripture.
• Learn a new skill—like beading, local weaving, or a native language. - Social
Interaction: Regular visits, church/mosque gatherings, and storytelling
sessions protect against isolation and depression, both linked to faster
cognitive decline.
4. Manage Chronic Conditions
- Control
Blood Pressure & Diabetes: Uncontrolled hypertension and high blood
sugar damage blood vessels in the brain. Routine checks can catch issues
early.
Caring for
Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s
1. Emotional Support: by validating
patient’s emotions and educating family members
2. Practical Caregiving Tips
- Establish
Routine: Consistent meal times, prayer sessions, and bedtime help reduce
confusion.
- Create
Safe Spaces: Remove tripping hazards, install grab bars near the toilet
and shower, lock away dangerous items (e.g., cooking knives) to prevent
accidental harm.
- Use
Simple Reminders: Label cupboards (“Tea,” “Pots”) and place
clocks/calendars with large, clear print in common areas.
- Engage
in Meaningful Activities: Gentle gardening, listening to familiar local
music (Highlife, Juju), or looking through old family photos can calm
agitation and reinforce identity.
3. Support for Caregivers: rotate visits
and caregiving duties among family, neighbours, or church/mosque groups to
prevent burnout.
Share this article, and let’s build a community where every mind is valued and protected, one daily habit at a time.
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