HOW TO PREVENT THE ONSET OF DEMENTIA

Dementia represents a broad healthcare term to describe several symptoms such as memory loss, cognitive decline, and the erosion of social skills. Dementia is not one specific disease, but instead, it can be caused by several diseases negatively impacting the brain and body at the same time. Residents of our assisted living facility in Denver living with dementia also might have trouble reasoning, communicating, and performing simple daily tasks. They might exhibit sudden personality changes, as well as suffer from depression, anxiety, and/or intense agitation.

At our senior living center in Denver, Colorado, some caregivers receive specialized training to provide memory care services for residents who live with dementia. Not only do the highly-trained caregivers provide memory care support, but they also educate residents on how to prevent the onset of dementia.

Here are several tips for residents of retirement communities in Denver to learn how to prevent the onset of dementia.

Keep the Brain Active

Participating in activities that stimulate the brain can delay the onset of developing dementia symptoms. Examples of activities that stimulate the brain include reading, solving puzzles, and playing competitive games such as chess and checkers. Working on an arts and crafts project, as well as listening to audiobooks that stimulate the mind as well. One of the most effective ways to keep the brain active involves learning a new skill, such as taking classes that teach you how to design website pages.

Be Social

One of the most common reasons why residents move into retirement communities in Denver, Colorado is to interact with other people. Being socially active benefits the brain by helping it fire the neurons required to maintain vibrant health. At our assisted living facility in Denver, the layout of our building includes several common areas where residents get the opportunity to interact. Our caregivers also organize weekly and monthly social events.

Eat Right

Following a healthy diet is the fuel the brain needs to stave off the symptoms of dementia. Certain food groups called superfoods like cruciferous vegetables and dark, leafy greens deliver the essential vitamins and minerals that keep the brain operating at its peak power. A diet rich in fruits and whole grains also contributes to maintaining a healthy brain and body. At our senior living center in Denver, a team of dieticians and nutritionists devise the healthiest meal plans for our residents.

Make Healthcare a Priority

To keep the brain healthy, bad habits such as smoking have to go. You also should take enough vitamins to boost the impact of the vitamins that you receive from healthy food sources like fruits and vegetables. Increasing your vitamin D level is especially important because seniors are at a much higher risk of developing bone and joint issues. Vitamin D also is good for the brain. Make sure you act with a sense of urgency when a healthcare issue arises by scheduling an appointment with one of our physicians.

Get Plenty of High-Quality

One of the many advantages of living at one of the retirement communities in Denver is the quiet ambiance at night, which allows residents to enjoy restful nights of sleep. Just like the rest of your body, the brain needs some time off from exercising its mental power. If you have sleep issues like snoring or sleep apnea, talk to one of our healthcare professionals to address the sleep issue. Our caregivers also can help by sharing tips on how to improve your sleep pattern while living at MorningStar at Observatory Park.