Foods That May Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

The connection between Alzheimer’s disease and diet.

For a long time, most people believed that Alzheimer’s disease was caused by genetics. However, it is now estimated that fewer than 5% of cases are caused by genetics alone. Today, many scientists believe that Alzheimer’s disease is caused by a combination of genetics, environmental factors and lifestyle choices. Although you can’t control your environment or your genes, you can control what you put into your mouth, and recent studies have shown a connection between certain foods and brain health. There is even research that suggests that some foods can help to lower your risk for Alzheimer’s disease. The following is a list from our memory care specialists in Raleigh of a couple of foods that could help to prevent Alzheimer’s disease:

#1. Omega 3 Fatty Acids

One thing that can lead to dementia is a brain lesion, but you will be glad to know that eating your daily recommended dose of omega 3 fatty acids can reduce your risk of getting a brain lesion by a staggering 26%! You can find omega fatty acids in many foods, including fatty fish (like salmon), olive oil, flax seeds and walnuts.

#2. Berries

Berries are a great source of antioxidants, including polyphenols, which help to reduce inflammation and promote improved brain cell activity. In fact, a study conducted by Tufts University found that berries can actually reverse things that slow down the way the brain processes information.

These are just a couple of the many foods that could help to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Would you like to learn more? If so, please stay tuned for our next blog.

 

Dementia and Communication Part 3

Have you had a chance to read our latest blog yet? If you have, then you already know that our memory care specialists in Durham have been giving you tips for communicating with a loved one who has dementia. So far, we’ve talked about not taking things personally, paying attention to emotion, setting a positive mood and showing respect. The following is a list of our last few communication tips:

#5. Limit surrounding noise and distractions.

Communication is difficult enough as it is, but when there are lots of distractions around, it can make it almost impossible. When you are communicating with your loved one, make sure that you limit all of the distractions and noise that surround you. It is also important to get their full attention before you start talking. You can do this by using their name, identifying yourself, gently touching their arm or hand and maintaining eye contact.

#6. Speak simply, slowly and clearly.

When you speak to your loved one, use plain words and short sentence to get your message across. Make sure that you also state your message clearly. Refrain from speaking too loudly, as this can be interpreted as yelling. Instead, use a lower pitch, and if your loved one still has a hard time understanding, repeat yourself slowly.

#7. Ask simple, easy-to-answer questions.

Asking questions is a great way to get other people to open up about their lives, but you should avoid asking too many open-ended questions. Make it easy for your loved one to answer you by asking them yes or no questions. You can encourage them to open up more, just watch out for signs that of anger or frustration.

Do you have questions or concerns about communicating with your loved one? If so, contact us!

 

Dementia and Communication Part 2

Communicating with a person who has dementia is challenging, but it’s also incredibly important.

Communication is challenging enough, but when you are attempting to communicate with someone who has dementia, the obstacles can seem insurmountable. That’s why, in our last blog, our memory care specialists in Chapel Hill started giving you helpful tips on how to communicate with a loved one who has dementia. If you haven’t had a chance to read it yet, check it out! Keep reading to learn more communication tips:

#3. Set a positive mood with your body language.

As we said in our last blog, body language says a whole lot more than words ever could, and that isn’t just true for your loved one’s body language, it’s also true for yours. Regardless of whether your loved one understands what you are saying or not, you can use your tone of voice, facial expressions and physical touch to express yourself in a way that they will be able to understand.

#4. Always show your loved one respect.

Too many people make the mistake of using “baby talk” when communicating with people who have dementia. They are not your baby or your dog, and although they may not show it, they can understand that you are talking down to them. You should also never talk about them as if they aren’t in the room or assume that they don’t understand you.

These are just a few of the many things that you can do to communicate more effectively with a loved one who has dementia. Would you like to learn more? If so, please stay tuned for our next blog.

Dementia and Communication

Are you having trouble communicating with a loved one who has dementia?

This can be incredibly challenging and emotionally trying for all parties involved, however it essential that you keep trying to connect. Although you may not realize it, communication and interaction can greatly improve your loved one’s quality of life in ways you may never know. Although communication is difficult, there are certain things you can do to make it a bit easier. The following is a list from our memory care specialists of tips to help you communicate with your loved one:

#1. Don’t take things personally.

It is common for people who have dementia to have a difficult time understanding and communicating, which leads to frustration and aggression. As a result, you will probably hear many unfiltered thoughts that aren’t exactly politically correct or socially acceptable. In these situations, getting hurt or mad does no good, so prepare yourself to let things roll off your back.

#2. Pay close attention to their emotions.

Although the words that they say may not make sense or may not be the truth, you should try to look past the words and try to understand what they are really saying with their emotions and body language. If you are able to, mirror their body language. It will help to validate your loved one’s emotions and show empathy.

Would you like to learn about more tips for communicating with a loved one who has dementia? If so, please stay tuned for our next blog.