Protecting Your Brain Health: What You Need to Know About Dementia

Are you worried about memory loss or changes in your thinking? Millions of seniors face concerns about dementia every day, but there are steps you can take now to protect your brain and health. Dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease, affects millions of older adults and their families, but with early detection and proper care, you can manage symptoms and live a fulfilling life.

This blog will explain dementia, how it impacts families, and what you can do today to reduce risk. We’ll also show you how Your Health’s providers and neurology specialists are here to help.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a broad term for the loss of memory, thinking, and decision-making abilities that interfere with daily life. The most common form is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are other types, including vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia.

At first, you might notice small changes—forgetting a recent conversation, getting confused in familiar places, or misplacing things more often. As the condition progresses, it can lead to more significant issues, like struggling to recognize loved ones, having trouble with everyday tasks, or experiencing mood swings. These changes not only affect the person with dementia but also deeply impact their family and caregivers.

How Dementia Affects Families

Watching someone you love experience memory loss is emotionally challenging. Caregivers often feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and helpless as they watch someone they’ve known slowly change. The role reversal—becoming the caregiver for a parent or spouse—can take a toll on both physical and mental health.

One of the most challenging aspects of dementia is that it can cause unpredictable mood swings. Your loved one may get confused or scared and respond angrily or frustrated. Caregivers often feel grief as they see the person they love drift away, losing shared memories and their ability to connect.

If you’re caring for a loved one with dementia, you’re not alone. Support is available to help you navigate this difficult journey, starting with understanding the disease.

Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Brain Health

While we can’t control aging or genetics, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of dementia. Many risk factors are linked to lifestyle; by making healthier choices, you can protect your brain and overall health.

1. Stay physically active: Exercise improves blood flow to your brain and reduces the risk of cognitive decline.

2. Eat a balanced diet: Diets like the Mediterranean diet—rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats—are great for brain health.

3. Manage chronic conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes increase the risk of dementia. Could you work with your provider to keep these conditions in check?

4. Stay mentally and socially engaged: Keeping your brain active through reading, puzzles, or learning new skills can help maintain cognitive function. Social interaction is also essential for brain health.

Early Detection is Key

If you’re concerned about memory loss, don’t ignore the signs. The sooner dementia is diagnosed, the sooner you can take action. At Your Health, we offer comprehensive assessments to determine if you or a loved one might be experiencing early signs of dementia.

Our primary care providers will evaluate your overall health and any factors that could contribute to memory issues, like high blood pressure or diabetes. If needed, we’ll refer you to one of our Your Health Neurology Specialists, who can help diagnose the specific type of dementia and develop a care plan tailored to your needs.

Early detection gives you more options for managing the disease and planning for the future. It can also open doors to new treatments that may slow the progression of dementia.

Support for Caregivers

Caring for someone with dementia is tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. There are many resources available, including support groups, educational tools, and professional caregiving services.

One especially helpful resource is Jolene Brackey's book Creating Moments of Joy. It offers practical tips on how caregivers can create positive, joyful moments for their loved ones even as their cognitive abilities decline.

Stay Informed About New Research

Alzheimer’s research is advancing every year, with new treatments and insights always emerging. Stay informed; you can have meaningful conversations with your doctor about the latest research and medications that may help slow the disease, especially when caught early.

Conclusion: Take Action Today for Your Health

Dementia doesn’t have to define your future, and you’re not alone in facing this challenge. If you’ve noticed memory changes or are worried about dementia, now is the time to act. Schedule an appointment with your provider for a comprehensive assessment.

If needed, we’ll connect you with one of our expert Your Health Neurology Specialists, who can provide personalized care and support for your brain health. The earlier you seek help, the more options you’ll have for treatment and support.

Don’t wait—reach out to Your Health today and take control of your cognitive health. Together, we can help you live a healthier, happier life.