More Information on Alzheimer's
Don’t Turn Your Back On Memory Loss
Memory loss can have many causes. The most common cause of memory loss and dementia in the elderly is Alzheimer’s, a disease that causes brain function to steadily deteriorate over time.
If someone you know is having memory problems that interfere with daily life, encourage them to see their doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s and related diseases is critical and can keep symptoms from getting worse.
Know the Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s
Everyone forgets things sometimes, but usually can recall them later. Those with Alzheimer’s forget and do not remember, negatively affecting their job performance and daily activities. Some other warning signs of Alzheimer’s are:
Disorientation of Time & Place
- Recalling a past event as though it just happened
- Getting lost in or near your own home or a familiar place
Misplacing Things
- Putting things in inappropriate places--like an iron in the freezer
- Losing your keys and not understanding their purpose when you find them again
Mood Swings or Personality Changes
- Rapid and extreme mood swings--from calm to tears to anger in minutes
- Drastic changes--such as becoming irritable, fearful, or suspicious
- “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”
Problems with Abstract Thinking
- Trouble making simple calculations, like counting out change
- Forgetting what numbers are and what to do with them
Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks
- Not recognizing a common object or its use
Problems with Language
- Forgetting simple words like “cat”
- Substituting words that are not quite appropriate
Loss of Initiative
- Lacking motivation for simple tasks--like getting dressed or preparing food
Poor or Weakened Judgment
- Driving the wrong way down a one-way street
- Leaving the stove lit
- Withdrawing money from the bank and leaving it on the bank counter
Maintain a Healthy Brain
You can do many things now to reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s in the future.
“Take Brain Health to Heart”
- Prevent or control high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
- Lose extra weight
- Eat a heart-healthy diet
- Stop smoking or don’t start
Get Regular Physical Activity
- Exercise decreases stress and improves circulation, metabolism, mood and attention--all of which improve brain health
- Walk or participate in other vigorous physical activity for 20 minutes every day
Challenge Your Mind
- To keep your brain healthy, keep it active and engaged
- Challenge your mind by reading, writing, doing puzzles, and learning new things
Stay Socially Engaged
- Interacting with others is vital for brain health
- Friends, families and community groups provide priceless emotional support throughout life
- Leisure activities that combine physical, mental and social elements may be most effective in preventing dementia
Heads Up! Protect Your Head
- Take precautions against head injuries, which increase your risk for dementia
- Always wear your seat belt, wear a helmet when participating in sports, and unclutter your house to avoid tripping and falling
Learn More...
To learn more about Alzheimer’s and related diseases, visit the University of Utah Center for Alzheimer’s Care, Imaging and Research (CACIR) at www.utahmemory.org or call (801) 585-6387.
