We’ve got your back: Five things to know about your spine
JUN 27, 2022Five interesting facts from St. Joseph Health that you should know about your spine.
Read More Additional information about 5 things to know about your spine | St. Joseph HealthDid you know that the number of people with Alzheimer's disease doubles about every five years beyond age 65? When it comes to people who are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s, researchers are discovering which activities can help slow the progression, like doing a crossword puzzle every day, reading, or journaling. Let’s dig a little deeper into the causes of Alzheimer’s disease.
Unlike age, family history, and genetics, there are risk factors that you may have some influence on. People with a greater risk of Alzheimer's are 65 years or older, have one or more family members with the disease, or have a genetic marker for Alzheimer's.
While we can't control any of the previous factors, research is beginning to reveal that there may be factors that you can influence through lifestyle and wellness changes. Alzheimer's disease is caused by damage to a neuron's synapse when trying to remove excess protein built up around the area. While you can't control the removal of these cells, you can control how many synapses form in your brain.
Your heart is at the center of everything. There is growing evidence of a link between heart health and the brain. Scientists have found that the risk of heart failure correlates to the degree of cognitive decline. You can make certain heart-healthy lifestyle changes, like eating a proper diet, getting enough exercise, and limiting stress to lower your heart failure risk. Speak with a primary care physician about specific ways to decrease your risk of heart disease.
Growing research shows how cognitive games—things you may do to pass time on your phone—can actually have an impact on your brain’s health. This research shows the connection between participating in cognitive games and more significant gray matter volumes in areas of the brain affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Another study provides evidence that mentally stimulating activity in seniors before the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease appears to compress the slow cognitive decline of the conditions.
What is gray matter in the brain? This is the brain's outermost layer and is pinkish gray in color. Gray matter is responsible for your movement control, memory, and emotions.
When you keep your brain active by learning anything new—an instrument, a language, a hobby—you’re helping create new synapses, make connections, and increase your cognitive ability. Take a look at this list of fun, mind-challenging activities.
Puzzles. There are many different types of puzzles—crosswords, sudoku, jigsaw, scrabble, and more. Try out some different styles and figure out which type is your favorite.
Card games. Along with giving your brain a challenge to focus on, card games offer an opportunity for socialization with other people. Grab a friend, or multiple, and a deck of cards and work your brains.
Memory games. Put your memory to the test by playing a matching game online or with a set of cards.
Reading and writing. These tasks flex the creative side of your brain. Writing in a journal is another way to work on your memory. You can even join a book club to stay social and connected with other people.
You can even get started right now by trying to figure out some of our “play on words” puzzles!
Now you know how to help keep your brain healthy—but what changes should you look for if you or a loved one is at risk for Alzheimer’s? The difference between typical age-related changes and Alzheimer’s is the severity and rate of the decline in memory and reasoning skills. Here are the common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Remember, while there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's, you can take steps to lower your risk of developing the disease. Schedule an appointment with a St. Joseph and Texas A&M Health primary care physician for questions on healthy living and about getting in touch with a St. Joseph Health neurologist.
Five interesting facts from St. Joseph Health that you should know about your spine.
Read More Additional information about 5 things to know about your spine | St. Joseph HealthThese five cherry recipes will have you running to the orchard to pick a whole bunch. The fruit’s health benefits make these tasty delicacies even more enticing.
Read More Additional information about Healthy cherry-based recipes | St. Joseph HealthMany people missed their recommended cancer screenings in 2020, but new interest in wellness may be the key to reprioritizing preventive health.
Read More Additional information about How to resume cancer screenings post-COVID | St. Joseph HealthLooking for a doctor? Perform a quick search by name or browse by specialty.