Helpful Information
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5 Natural Ways to Slow Dementia Symptoms
Dementia is one of the most heart breaking conditions that can affect the ones we love. Supporting those who are showing the signs and symptoms of dementia and knowing how to help them can be extremely difficult.
However, there are a few simple changes that can assist in slowing these symptoms.
1. Be more active
Studies have shown that even light exercise like going for walks, moving about the house and doing daily chores are able to simulate people and improve their cognitive functions.
(We do not necessarily mean pumping weights or attending the over 60s CrossFit class).
This relationship between higher levels of daily motion and dementia has been explored by US and Brazilian scientists. They identified those living with dementia lack a protein called Irisin that is generated during exercise. Irisin was found to improve recall and generate neuron growth in the brain in people who are active over 30 minutes a day.
Studies like these are now showing that general health is extremely for individuals with symptoms of dementia. Most risk factors are linked to brain function are related to good health; so maintaining – (or gaining) – a healthy lifestyle is a great combatant.
2. Keep the mind sharp
Now we have discussed keeping the body active, it’s time to address the mind!
Intellectual stimulation is most commonly praised by the scientific community and, well… we’re here to praise it as well.
Little things like puzzles, word games and Sudoku have been found to be highly successful in slowing down signs of dementia. They present small challenges that engage the mind and improve mental function.
Recently, cognitive art-based activities have been hailed for their therapeutic qualities. Art is uniquely able to stimulate those with dementia both technically and mentally. While most of us have subpar art skills- this is something fun for everyone involved and the results can look spectacular.
3. Watch what you eat
‘Watching what you eat’ does not mean forcing kale or superfoods on anyone. No one is cruel enough to insist that.
As mentioned before, general health is becoming a critical part of tackling dementia; and that includes what people are eating as well.
Maintaining healthy blood glucose, cholesterol levels and blood pressure are small steps that can make the biggest difference to the wellbeing of a loved one.
You’ll find that a lot of things good for the heart are good for the brain as well. By minimising the food ‘no-nos’ – like saturated fats- you lower the likelihood of health issues that can accelerate or spark dementia.
Reducing cardiovascular risk factors can prevent medical conditions linked to dementia. People are who are unfortunate enough to suffer a stroke are more likely to develop dementia- particularly vascular dementia.
You can help by choosing healthier places to eat out when getting together with friends and family, shopping at farmers markets or having a family home-made meal with a few more vegetables thrown in.
4. Getting rid of bad habits…. and staring good ones.
It’s easy to get stuck in a ‘bad’ routine. Smoking, frequent drinking, or going to bed late are all little cheats that we think we can get away with.
But habits like these place small stresses on the heart and mind that generate bad health and can lead to – or cause problems that bring on – dementia.
However, conquering these gives us a chance develop healthier practices that can help naturally slow down symptoms of dementia.
Developing patterns of behaviour to combat memory loss is one of the most helpful things you can do. Start keeping lists of things to be done and people that you have recently met. Start writing a diary of what was done that day. Have certain special spots for objects like keys and glasses.
5. ‘Spill the tea’ or have a day out
Recent studies from The Alzheimer’s Society has found that a chat with friends or family is more beneficial than just a bit of a gossip.
Their research discovered that social interaction is the perfect foil to the loneliness related to increases of cognitive decline. The physical benefits are also apparent, as group interaction visibly lowers stress levels and blood pressure.
Family outings, lunch with friends, special events, and group and pet therapy have all been observed to maintain independence and mentally stimulate. New technologies have also brought the option of digital media; one of the best ways for them to be connected to the people who love them at all times.
If you or someone you know is suffering from dementia, you can contact Dementia Australia for more information or support at https://www.dementia.org.au/
Staying Healthy in the Cooler Months
We have some tips to keep you motivated during these colder months. Staying active especially during the cooler the months is good for the mind, body and spirit.
Influenza
Here we are in March and a quarter of the way through the year. 2018 appears to be fast slipping away and Flu season is on the horizon.
Each year here at Twilight, we take this season very seriously as it can have a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of our residents and staff.
The Importance of Palliative Care
Australia’s population is continuing to age and the demand for palliative care services is rapidly increasing. As a nation, we are struggling to meet the growing need for specialised resources in palliative medicine, a topic that has been highlighted in recent news media.
Palliative Care Australia has revealed that only one palliative medicine specialist is available for every 704 deaths each year. Concerningly, this means that people are not receiving the care that they desire and deserve at the end of their lives, and some are passing on in discomfort and fear instead of peace and dignity.
Stepping Into A Mindful New Year
The new year can be a busy time for all of us, especially when it comes to finding a healthy balance between time spent on family, friends, food, fitness and finances. It is also a time for reflection on the year that has been, to inspire a positive change in lifestyle and to set intentions for the year ahead.
Our minds are powerful, and our mental state can cause our bodies stress. However, recent studies have shown that focussing more on the present moment, a process known as ‘mindfulness’, can benefit our general well-being.
How Can We Combat Loneliness Amongst The Elderly?
Being alone describes a state of being, whilst being lonely is derived from an emotional response to a circumstance. While some people prefer being alone, it’s rare for anyone to welcome feelings of loneliness. Social isolation can negatively impact a person’s mood, outlook on life, sense of purpose and can lead to severe mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
At Twilight Aged Care, we value the importance of community and connectedness, and we understand that active social connections are imperative for our mental and physical well-being.
Clinical News Update
Over the past few months many of our care staff have engaged in education including medication management, care for residents with Dementia and recognition of the deteriorating resident.
Following consultation with our facility managers and our RN’s, Twilight has also commenced a six month trial around our “On Call” roster. During this time, the facility managers and RN’s will be “On Call” for their homes only.
How our dietary needs change as we age
As we age, a healthy diet becomes more important than ever. The right foods give our bodies the best chance at maintaining our mobility, mind and overall health. Unfortunately, with age, our appetites decrease, along with our dexterity and our ability to chew, so eating the right food isn’t always straightforward.
At Twilight Aged Care, we aim to provide each individual with quality food that caters to their personal, cultural and dietary needs. In this article, we’ve put together some insights, information and tips on maintaining a healthy diet as we age.