Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease can be frustrating, overwhelming, and scary. However, before the disease hits, it is important to know about some of the risk factors for this disease. There are certain things that make it more likely that someone will get Alzheimer’s disease. The more that you know about these risk factors as a family caregiver, the more you can help your loved one.

Homecare in Provo UT: Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s

Cardiovascular Issues

One of the risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease is cardiovascular issues. Any health condition that blocks the flow of blood throughout the body can raise the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. If your elderly loved one is a smoker, they should quit if they want to reduce their risk of getting this disease. If they have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or if they are obese, they should get these things treated right away. The sooner, the better.

Being Physically Inactive

Is your elderly loved one physically inactive? Do they sit down far more than they should? Do they not exercise anymore? If you notice they are physically inactive, you should encourage them to move around more. You or their elder care providers can go on walks with them. Do anything to get them moving. The more they move, the lower their risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease will be.

Not Socializing

Does your elderly loved one just sit home all the time? Have they stopped visiting with friends and family members? Have they stopped going to community events? If your loved one is not socializing, they have an increased risk of getting this disease. If you can get your loved one out and visiting others more often, you can help to lower their risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Head Injuries

Unfortunately, head injuries are another risk factor of getting Alzheimer’s disease. Head injuries are complicated. They can damage the brain. Even if someone had a head injury as a younger child, they could still have an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease in their elderly years.

Sleep Issues

Does your elderly loved one have sleep issues? Maybe they snore loudly. Sleep apnea increases the risk of getting this disease. If your elderly loved one suffers from any sleep issues, have them see their doctor as soon as possible to treat the condition.

These are some of the risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. Now that you know more about these factors, you can talk to your elderly loved one and try your best to help them prevent this disease.

Are you or a loved one considering hiring Homecare in Provo, UT? Please talk to the friendly staff at December Rose Senior Care at Home. Providing Home Care in Highland, Utah and Surrounding Communities. 801-427-ROSE (7673)

Sources

https://www.cdc.gov/