ALZHEIMER’S & BRAIN HEALTH

 

Photo by Steven HWG on Unsplash

In many homes, we chalk memory lapses up to aging or ‘just being tired.’ But what if these are early signs of something more serious? This June, Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, we’re demystifying Alzheimer’s and showing how everyone can protect their brain health.

 

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, a progressive brain disease that gradually destroys memory and cognitive function. Unlike normal aging, Alzheimer’s involves buildup of abnormal protein plaques (amyloid) and tangles inside brain cells, leading to cell death and shrinking of key brain regions. Patients may initially struggle with short-term memory but eventually lose the ability to recognize even loved ones. Rising life expectancy and growing elderly populations mean more families will face Alzheimer’s, even if awareness remains low.

 

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:

  1. Memory lapses beyond “forgetting names.” missing appointments, repeating conversations, or needing reminders for routine tasks.
  2. Disorientation in familiar places. getting lost getting back home or confusion navigating well-known neighbourhoods.
  3. Difficulty performing daily tasks like struggling to follow a recipe for jollof rice or forgetting steps in the suya-grilling process.
  4. 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

  1. 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

  1. Establish Routine: Consistent meal times, prayer sessions, and bedtime help reduce confusion.
  2. 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.
  3. Use Simple Reminders: Label cupboards (“Tea,” “Pots”) and place clocks/calendars with large, clear print in common areas.
  4. 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.

 

Remember, Alzheimer’s is not “just old age.” Early recognition, healthy daily habits, and community support can delay onset and improve quality of life for millions. This June, Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, we pledge to: learn the signs, adopt brain-healthy habits, and stand by caregivers.
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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