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Alzheimer’s Disease is a devastating condition that affects millions of seniors and their families. As we age, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s increases, making it vital to recognize the signs, learn about ways to help prevent or manage symptoms, and plan for the future with an Advance Dementia Directive.

Recognizing the Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that begins with mild memory loss and can lead to the loss of the ability to carry on conversations and respond to the environment. Early detection is crucial for managing the disease and slowing its progression. Here are some common signs:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life (forgetting recently learned information)
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks, such as paying bills or following recipes
• Confusion with time or place, such as losing track of dates or seasons
• Difficulty with language, including struggling to find the right words
• Decreased judgment and poor decision-making
• Changes in mood or personality, including depression or social withdrawal

Although many of us have moments of forgetfulness, it’s important to distinguish between normal aging and something more serious. A misplaced set of keys or occasional forgetfulness is no cause for alarm—trust your instincts and seek guidance if something feels different. If you or a loved one notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider to assess the situation.

Exercise: A Tool to Help Prevent and Combat Alzheimer’s

Regular physical activity plays a significant role in maintaining cognitive health and reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s. Studies show that exercise increases blood flow to the brain and stimulates the release of growth factors that protect brain cells. Activities like:

• Walking (at least 30 minutes daily)
• Swimming
• Yoga (which can help reduce stress, a contributing factor to Alzheimer’s)
• Strength training is beneficial. Even light exercise can help improve mood and cognition, so it’s never too late to start.

Foods and Supplements to Include

A healthy diet can also contribute to brain health. The Mediterranean diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats (like those from olive oil), is often recommended to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Specific foods include:

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
• Berries (blueberries, strawberries), which are high in antioxidants
• Fish (especially salmon and sardines), rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Nuts and seeds, which provide healthy fats

Supplements that may offer cognitive benefits include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Vitamin E
• Turmeric (curcumin has been linked to brain health)

Foods and Supplements to Avoid

Certain foods may increase the risk of cognitive decline. To support brain health, it’s best to limit or avoid:

• Sugary and processed foods (soda, candy, pastries)
• Refined carbohydrates (white bread, white rice)
• Excessive alcohol
  

These foods can cause inflammation, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress—all of which can harm the brain.

Caring for Those with Alzheimer’s

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s requires patience, empathy, and often physical or emotional support. Routine and structure can help reduce confusion for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Here are a few tips:

• Create a calm environment to reduce anxiety and agitation
• Establish a daily routine to provide familiarity and comfort
• Break tasks into simple steps to make daily activities easier
• Use memory aids, like calendars or labels, to help with orientation

Caregivers should also ensure their well-being by seeking respite care and joining support groups for emotional relief and practical advice.

Estate Planning

One of the most critical steps for families is planning for the future. An Advance Health Care Directive and an Advance Dementia Directive are essential parts of a Comprehensive Estate Plan. These documents ensure that the wishes of a person with Alzheimer’s are followed. A Revocable Living Trust outlines preferences for the distribution of assets and a plan for incapacity and death.

By having these conversations early, individuals with Alzheimer’s can have their voices heard and their wishes respected. For helpful advice on Long-Term Estate Planning download Christopher Botti’s eBook: Understanding Long-Term Care Medi-Cal.

Please reach out if you have concerns about a loved one who needs care. Botti & Morison helps families create comprehensive legal plans covering long-term care estate planning and all the documents mentioned. Please contact us today at 877-585-1885 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your elder law matters.

Thanks for reading.

Christopher E. Botti, Esq., Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law