Dementia, How to Prevent the Most Fearful Disease at the End of Life
As we get older, one of the words we hear most frequently around us is ‘dementia.’ In fact, when we talk about the health of our parents or grandparents, we can’t help but mention dementia. Many people consider dementia as a disease as scary as cancer or heart disease. Why is that? It’s not just a disease that causes memory loss, but a disease that destroys our dignity and personality as a human being.
Dementia, medically called Alzheimer’s disease, not only destroys an individual’s daily life, but also shakes up the lives of the entire family. What’s even scarier is that it’s difficult to treat, and anyone can become a target if prevention is neglected. Dementia is different from simple forgetfulness Everyone has probably had a hard time remembering where they put something at least once or twice. However, simple forgetfulness is different from dementia. Forgetfulness usually gives hints or the memory returns over time, but dementia completely erases the memory. For example, if you forget to close the zipper after going to the bathroom, it may be forgetfulness, but if you try to use the toilet without opening the zipper at all, it may be a sign that you should suspect dementia.
Dementia, prevention is the best Currently, there is no way to completely cure dementia. However, fortunately, methods for prevention are gradually being discovered. Many experts unanimously emphasize that small habits in daily life have a great impact on dementia prevention. In fact, the Ministry of Health and Welfare and Ajou University research team analyzed 161 papers from around the world and announced ‘scientifically proven dementia prevention methods.’
Among them, the most effective one was ‘social activities and household chores.’ It is said that if you move your body and mind by cleaning, gardening, cooking, knitting, sports, or religious activities every day, the incidence of dementia decreases by 80%. More important than the type of activity is to do it ‘consistently’ and ‘enjoyably.’
Creating habits that stimulate the brain The second most important thing is a lifestyle that constantly stimulates the brain. Activities such as sending emails, reading books, and learning new skills or musical instruments keep the brain active. Active and creative activities are more effective than static hobbies. Games that use the mind, such as solving puzzles, writing, and memorizing numbers, are also good examples.
Walking exercise is also essential. Walking briskly for about 30 minutes at least three times a week improves blood flow and helps maintain cognitive abilities by supplying oxygen to the brain.
Diet and nutrition are also important Diet also affects brain health. Blue fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids protect brain cells, and milk helps maintain brain nerve function. Antioxidants abundant in fruits and vegetables clean brain blood vessels, and nutrients such as vitamins C, E, and folic acid are known to be effective in suppressing memory decline. On the other hand, smoking is a strong risk factor for dementia. Cigarettes destroy brain cells, and smokers have a three times higher risk of dementia than non-smokers. Quitting smoking is the most powerful preventive measure not only for dementia but also for overall health.
Attitude is Brain Health Psychological factors are also important in preventing dementia. When you are stressed, brain cells are damaged, and depression or anger can reduce brain function. Simply using the language of ‘gratitude’ and ‘joy’ in your life and reducing hatred or irritation can have a positive effect on your brain. In addition, an optimistic personality, active interpersonal relationships, and the habit of smiling often all help prevent dementia. Meditation, prayer, and religious activities are effective in maintaining emotional stability and relieve tension in the brain.
Dementia prevention starts today Dementia is a part of aging, but not everyone gets dementia. The brain, like a muscle, deteriorates if you do not use it. Ultimately, the key to prevention lies in how we live ‘in this moment.’
Wake up every morning with calisthenics and supply oxygen to your brain with a glass of water. Make something with your hands, read a book out loud, listen to good music, and talk to friends. If there are names and memories that you do not want to forget even as you grow older, why not try practicing them little by little starting today?
