Dementia is on the rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control, around 55 million adults have dementia. Every year, there are ten million new cases. Scientists are working tirelessly to find a cure. Although one has not been found, there are optimistic findings that indicate diet may play a role in helping in the prevention of dementia. The Mediterranean diet is showing promise, prompting the medical community to recommend it to patients of all ages.

The Mediterranean Diet Shows Promise for Helping in the Prevention of Dementia

The Mediterranean diet is taking the world by storm over the last two decades, especially among senior living options. This diet is not really a diet at all but more a style of eating for those countries located around the Mediterranean Sea. Researchers have concluded this antioxidant diet has the potential to stop oxidative damage and protein buildups in the brain, two hallmarks of dementia diseases.

This diet is packed with nutritional benefits. Seniors are encouraged to consume fatty fish full of Omega-3 fatty acids. Fish, nuts, avocados, and other sources of healthy fats protect the brain and its function. Seniors should also consume lean chicken and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, preferably those in season.

While this diet cannot be used to treat those with dementia, it has shown positive approaches to prevention. Because the Mediterranean diet focuses on healthy whole foods over processed junk, it can be beneficial to people of all ages.

Scientists continue to study how the Mediterranean diet affects the brain. It will be interesting to hear about the findings as they occur in the next ten years. As of now, treatment involves a concerted and patient-centric approach geared toward protecting brain function and eliminating the risks of cognitive decline and memory loss.

What Are the Common Signs of Dementia?

Those with dementia may no longer be able to live alone because of the cognitive decline and memory loss that occur with the disease. Seniors and their loved ones need to recognize the signs of dementia. When these arise, seniors may need to explore their senior living options for help.

  • Frequently forgetting recent events, people’s names, and things
  • Losing personal belongings and putting them in strange places
  • Getting lost when driving in familiar territory
  • Frequent bouts of confusion
  • Difficulties solving problems or making decisions
  • Difficulties performing common tasks
  • Visual distance impairments
  • Trouble in conversation and difficulties finding the correct words

While minor cognitive decline and memory loss are common after the age of 65, pronounced problems cannot be ignored and may be a sign of dementia. People with dementia often need to seek community living for seniors. Living alone may no longer be safe when problems begin to arise.

What Are the Common Changes in Mood and Behavior?

Diseases like dementia begin to negatively affect a person’s mind. Mood and behavioral changes are common. If seniors or their loved ones notice any of these signs, they need to take action and speak with a doctor to determine the cause. They may also need to search for senior living in Los Angeles, CA.

  • Feelings of sadness, anxiety, depression, and social isolation
  • Changes in personality
  • Sudden inappropriate behaviors
  • Withdrawals from social activities and work
  • Apathetic to others’ emotions and feelings

Dementia can affect people differently. Most of the symptoms will worsen over time. In some people, the symptoms develop slowly, but a fast progression is possible, depending on the advancement of the disease. Early intervention is critical for helping slow down the progression with medications and integrative treatments through senior care programs.

Treatment For Dementia

There is no cure for dementia, but there are treatment options that can help seniors manage the symptoms. People with dementia should take the following steps to protect their overall health and brain function.

  • Eat a healthy diet and exercise.
  • Pursue social interactions and activities that engage the mind.
  • Medications are available to help slow the progression of dementia.

Those with signs of dementia need to seek medical help to get a diagnosis. Memory loss is common as people age and may not be a sign of worry. If multiple signs above occur, seniors may need to find assisted living homes.

Help is available for those with dementia. Living in a community can help seniors stay active and enjoy safe independence.

At Terraza of Cheviot Hills, we believe in offering an individualized approach to caring for our beloved residents. Seniors sometimes need integrative help when they have dementia. We provide this care, securing the safety, health, and well-being of seniors living in our beautiful community.