The cause of Alzheimer’s varies for each person, but there are common factors, such as aging, that affect most seniors. Your elderly loved one will need to maintain a proper care plan that preserves his or her cognitive health and prevents impairment. Below are some of the top causes of Alzheimer’s in seniors and what can be done to prevent each risk factor.
1. Age
Age is one of the most significant risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s, especially for adults over the age of 65. Growing older prevents the body from functioning normally and negatively impacts brain cell growth. Alzheimer’s isn’t a normal part of the aging process, and some seniors don’t develop the progressive disease at any point. However, the effects of aging can increase the risk of developing the condition, so you should speak with your loved one’s primary care physician about prevention strategies.
2. Family History
Although a family history of Alzheimer’s isn’t necessary for seniors to develop the disease, genetics can increase the risk. Individuals whose parents or siblings have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s have the highest odds. If the disease runs in your family, your loved one can lower the risk by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as avoiding smoking, getting regular exercise, and focusing on good nutrition.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, help is just a phone call away. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Assisting Hands Home Care is a leading in-home care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.
3. Cardiovascular Issues
Seniors with heart disease have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Prevent your loved one from taking on habits (such as smoking, unhealthy eating, and not exercising) that cause cardiovascular disorders. Instead, find ways to help your loved one prevent obesity, hypertension, and high cholesterol, all of which increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Lack of Stimulation
Seniors who receive physical and mental stimulation often have stronger cognitive reserves. Encourage your loved one to take up hobbies, such as reading, crafting, and playing music, that allow him or her to learn new things and preserve many of his or her cognitive functions in the senior years.
5. Traumatic Brain Injuries
Living a sedentary lifestyle puts seniors at higher risk for Alzheimer’s. The inactivity could lead to weak bones and disrupt their balance, coordination, and flexibility, which increases the risk of falls and head injuries. Develop an exercise routine your loved one can keep up with, and include walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, and other low-impact activities.
Seniors who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of highly trained professional caregivers. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable home care. Potomac families trust Assisting Hands Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.
6. Lack of Social Interaction
Mental problems such as depression are often associated with Alzheimer’s development. Staying socially active could prevent the progressive disease and enhance mental health. Find senior-friendly groups and activities for your loved one within the community, and ensure he or she has the transportation, money, and other necessities to participate in these projects or outings.
7. APOE Gene
Every person inherits a form of the APOE gene. The e3 type is the most common, followed by the e4 form. Individuals who have the e4 type are at higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s in the senior years, which is why this is one of the top causes of the disease. Some people with the APOE gene never develop the neurological disorder, but many who do begin to notice Alzheimer’s symptoms in their mid-60s.
Every senior living with Alzheimer’s deserves high-quality Alzheimer’s care. Potomac families can rely on the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care to keep their loved ones safe while managing the symptoms of the disease. Our caregivers help seniors regain a sense of pride and accomplishment while promoting cognitive health. Reach out to one of our Care Specialists today to learn more about our high-quality home care services.