A few simple lifestyle changes can make all of the difference in the quality of life for a dementia patient. By adopting a few healthy habits, many people with dementia and Alzheimer’s can enjoy a slowed progression of their disease. Many studies have shown that mental stimulation and healthy lifestyle choices can provide benefits to those in need of dementia care or Alzheimer’s care.

How to Slow the Progress of Dementia & Alzheimer’s

1. Stay Mentally Active

Keeping an active mind is an especially good idea for those in dementia care. It’s possible to slow memory loss and help prevent the decline of thinking skills by employing different kinds of brain training and other critical thinking activities. Mental stimulation can even help patients generate new brain cells, while strengthening the connections between them. Some excellent brain-stimulating exercises include completing crossword and number problems, playing a musical instrument, learning a new language, and playing games.

2. Get Plenty of Exercise

Even just a moderate amount of exercise can help increase blood flow and oxygen throughout the body and the brain. This makes it an excellent choice for dementia care patients who wish to help slow cognitive decline caused by the disease. To make it even more effective, exercise can be combined with other mentally stimulating activities such as socialization.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a heart-healthy diet can have numerous benefits for the brain. Those who want to help protect their brains from the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s should focus on eating foods that are high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Incorporating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and minimizing sugars and saturated fats are great places to start in any diet. 

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and needs a dementia care facility, contact Provident Village at Creekside in Cobb County, GA, or Provident Village at Canton in Cherokee County. Both facilities provide outstanding assisted living and senior care—with a focus on the residents’ quality of life. Visit their website for more information about their services, or call (678) 210-7135 in Smyrna or (770) 450-5135 in Canton to schedule a tour.