Prevent Alzheimer's with Healthy Lifestyle Tips

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, a time to shed light on a disease that affects millions of people worldwide.

One of the most significant findings in recent years is the difference in Alzheimer's rates between men and women. Women are twice as likely to develop the disease compared to men, a statistic that has prompted the establishment of the Women's Alzheimer's Movement (WAM) Prevention Center at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas by Maria Shriver, California's former first lady. This center is the first of its kind in the nation, focusing on female-centric Alzheimer's research and caregiving.

Dr. Jessica Caldwell, the center's director, highlighted genetic and lifestyle factors that contribute to the higher rates of Alzheimer's in women. One common genetic risk factor is the APOE allele, which increases the risk of developing dementia from Alzheimer's in women up to four times compared to men. Additionally, lifestyle choices like being sedentary can also impact the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's.

Hormonal levels, especially during events like menopause, play a crucial role in memory retention. Estrogen, a hormone that promotes neuron protection and growth of neural pathways, decreases during menopause, leading to potential memory issues. Some women may experience a more significant decline in memory, putting them at higher risk for Alzheimer's disease related to estrogen levels.

While research on drugs to slow Alzheimer's progression is ongoing, prevention remains a key focus. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep can help support brain function and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's.

As more advancements are made in Alzheimer's research, awareness and education are essential in understanding the disease and its impact on individuals, especially women who are at a higher risk. Through continued research and preventative measures, the hope is to one day find a cure for Alzheimer's and improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

Overall, Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing research, support for individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's, and the need for continued efforts to find effective treatments and prevention strategies. Through initiatives like the Women's Alzheimer's Movement Prevention Center, progress is being made in understanding and addressing the complexities of Alzheimer's disease.