How to promote brain health ahead of World Alzheimer’s Day
September 21st is World Alzheimer’s Day. With it comes many ways to get involved and show support for those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. By definition, “dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life,” according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
“Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells. This damage interferes with the ability of brain cells to communicate with each other. When brain cells cannot communicate normally, thinking, behavior, and feelings can be affected. For example, in Alzheimer’s disease, high levels of certain proteins inside and outside brain cells make it hard for brain cells to stay healthy and to communicate with each other.
Treatment of dementia depends on its cause. In the case of most progressive dementias, including Alzheimer’s disease, there is no cure and no treatment that slows or stops its progression,” they continue, which is why it becomes so important to promote and maintain practices of good brain health.
To learn more, McMaster University offers a course on six ways you can promote brain health and reduce your risk of developing dementia. The six factors include:
- Physical activity and weight management
- Diet and nutrition
- Blood vessel health
- Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol use
- Brain and social activity
- Other health conditions and drug side effects
The full 30-minute course is available for free and can be found here. Seasons residents will be able to view it in small groups on World Alzheimer’s Day to promote awareness. Please enquire will the Fun Manager at your respective community for additional details.
Memory Care at Seasons
Our dedicated team is always looking for new ways to improve the lives of our residents. As the Canadian population ages, experts suggest that an increasing number of their families will be affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Seasons responded to this reality by developing a person-centered Memory Care program for seniors living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Our Memory Care areas incorporate bright, open spaces that feel like home and are comfortable for visitors.
“We understand the importance of hiring for heart in order to build authentic relationships with our residents and their families. We believe that positive relationships among all care partners elevates person-centered care and makes it more meaningful,” says Stephanie Sanborn, Director of Education and Innovation.
In newer residences with memory care areas, we include private outdoor spaces to promote freedom of movement and to ensure nature is close by. Furthermore, we provide engaging tools that encourage conversation for families and staff to connect with residents. This “enabling of the environment” is one branch of our Embrace Today™ philosophy that promotes wellness and positive interactions for our residents living with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Personal Visits resume at Seasons
It pleases us to be able to offer personal visits to our retirement communities. Rest assured all visits are scheduled in accordance with COVID-19 safety protocols. Book a personal tour today to decide if Seasons is the right fit for you or a loved one. Please complete our contact form and we will contact you to arrange a visit or other convenient alternatives that might suit you better.