WORLD ALZHEIMER'S DAY (21/SEPT/2023)
Every year on September 21st, the world comes together to raise awareness for Alzheimer's disease on World Alzheimer's Day. This day aims to shed light on the struggles of those who are living with Alzheimer's, the impact of the disease on their families, and the need for more research and support.
UNDERSTANDING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE:
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia and is most commonly seen in individuals over the age of 65. While there is no known cure for Alzheimer's, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the disease and to slow its progression.
One of these steps is exercise. Exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on brain health and can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's. Exercise can also help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of other chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Here are some ways that exercise can help with Alzheimer's disease:
Exercise improves blood flow to the brain
Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, which can help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's.
Exercise reduces inflammation
Inflammation is thought to play a role in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Exercise has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's.
Exercise reduces stress
Stress can have a negative impact on brain health and cognitive function. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall mental health.
Exercise promotes the growth of new brain cells
Exercise promotes the growth of new brain cells, which can help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's.
Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall health and can help reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which are also risk factors for Alzheimer's disease.
World Alzheimer's Day is an important reminder of the impact of Alzheimer's disease on individuals and their families. While there is no known cure for the disease, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's and to slow its progression. Exercise is one of these steps and has been shown to have a positive impact on brain health and cognitive function. Check out the World Alzheimer's Day Australia website below for more information and resources. So, let's take this day as an opportunity to raise awareness and commit to making healthy lifestyle choices to reduce our risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
