Three Preventative Keys to Combating Alzheimer's
GemPagesOnce Alzheimer's disease sets in, the condition often progresses rapidly. When it comes to prevention, the key lies in focusing on the following three critical points, which everyone should prioritize in their efforts to ward off Alzheimer's.
I. Maintaining Healthy LDL Cholesterol Levels
Abnormal LDL cholesterol levels, often associated with hyperlipidemia, can cause significant damage to blood vessels. Specifically, when cerebral blood vessels are compromised, brain cells become highly susceptible to hypoxia and ischemia. Additionally, elevated LDL cholesterol can place the body in a state of chronic inflammation over time. Therefore, keeping LDL cholesterol levels under control is the top priority.
II. Addressing and Correcting Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is a significant risk factor for cognitive decline, accounting for approximately 8% of its attributable risk.[1] It is important to clarify that this 8% refers to the proportion of risk for cognitive decline contributed by hearing loss itself, not its relation to LDL cholesterol levels. Collectively, hearing loss and abnormal LDL cholesterol levels may account for up to 14 cases out of every 100 dementia patients. Thus, it is crucial to mitigate these risks.
The ability to hear sounds, especially the affectionate calls of family members, provides profound psychological, emotional, and mental stimulation for the brain. The warm interactions, such as hearing a child call out "Mom," "Dad," "Grandma," or "Grandpa," have undeniable positive effects on cognitive health. Therefore, it is imperative for older adults with hearing loss to use hearing aids promptly.
III. Preventing Social Isolation in Older Adults
Have you ever noticed that when one spouse passes away, the surviving partner often ages rapidly? Why does this happen? The reason is that the bereaved individual—whether due to grief, depression, or a loss of confidence—tends to withdraw from social engagements. Reduced social activity significantly increases the risk of brain aging and dementia. Therefore, we should encourage older adults to participate in social activities, such as playing mahjong, group dancing, choir singing, or other community events. These activities are vital for maintaining cognitive health.
It is important to remember that the most devastating aspect of Alzheimer's disease is the inability to recognize even those closest to you. Hence, as a society, we must collectively prioritize and safeguard the cognitive well-being of our elderly population.
[1] Livingston, G., Huntley, J, Sommerlad, A., Ames, D, Ballard, C, Banerjee, S.,Mukadam, N.(2020). Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 reportofthe Lancet Commissin.The Lancet,396:413-46.doi:10.1016/S0140 6736(20)30367-6
https://www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(20)30367-6/fulltext
