Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease affects nearly 6.7 million Americans, most over age 65, a number expected to more than double by 2060.  Alzheimer’s begins as mild memory loss and can eventually affect a person’s ability to enjoy a normal routine.  It is the fifth leading cause of death in adults aged 65 and older.

The type of memory loss affecting those with Alzheimer’s is not part of normal aging, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), but there is hope:

  1. It can be treated. 
  2. There are ways to lower the risk.
  3. Research and programs are ongoing.

Treatment: Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, medications can ease symptoms and slow the disease process in some people. They work best in the early and middle stages of the disease.  Non-drug treatments focus on changing the person’s living space, making sure they are comfortable, re-directing, providing security objects, and creating a calm environment. 

Lowering the risk: The CDC has outlined eight ways to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors, and learn more through Healthwise at https://www.capitalheatlh.com. Click on the Member tab, then scroll down to the large Healthwise button. Ways to lower your risk of Alzheimer’s include:

  • Controlling high blood pressure
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Quitting smoking
  • Being physically active
  • Eating healthy meals
  • Getting 7-9 hours of sleep at night
  • Avoiding alcohol or using it in moderation
  • Managing diabetes

Research: Research projects are ongoing, as scientists don’t fully understand Alzheimer’s and recognize that there may not be a single cause. Some of the work being done revolves around:

  • Social and financial factors in people developing Alzheimer’s.
  • Populations at higher risk, such as American Indians and Alaska Natives. One such project is called Road Map.
  • Public Health programs “Addressing Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias,” called ADRD.
  • Developing a project to improve the health and quality of life for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias as part of “Healthy People 2030.”
  • Resources for caregivers, such as through local Alzheimer’s Association® chapters.

For more information from the CDC, go to https://www.cdc.gov/aginginfo/alzheimers.

Sourced By: Healthwise
Reviewed By: Capital Health Plan Physicians Group
Posted: September 3, 2024