Possible Ways To Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

Get Quality Sleep

Individuals with Alzheimer's disease often have insomnia and disrupted sleep. However, recent research indicates disrupted sleep may also be a risk factor for developing Alzheimer's disease. Poor sleep has been linked to greater levels of beta-amyloid, a brain-clogging protein that can cause further interference with sleep, particularly the deep sleep required for memory formation. Most adults need at least eight hours of uninterrupted sleep per night.

One thing individuals can do is get screened for sleep apnea. This condition causes disrupted breathing while patients sleep, and treatment can improve both an individual's sleep quality and physical health. It's also important to go to sleep and wake up at the same time, even on the weekends. Individuals should make sure their bedtime rituals are relaxing and their sleep environment is cool and comfortable, whether or not they have a medical condition affecting their sleep.

Manage Daily Stress

It's important for individuals to manage their daily stress, as persistent and chronic stress can have marked effects on the brain, hampering the growth of new nerve cells, shrinking key memory processing areas, and increasing an individual's risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. But individuals can use stress management tools to help deal with anxiety, stress, and minimize harmful effects on the brain.

One way to quiet the stress response is to breathe deeply. Exhaling for longer than an inhale is a way of activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the portion of the nervous system responsible for relaxation and rest. It also helps to schedule daily relaxation activities like taking walks, having soothing baths, or meditating. Individuals should make time for fun activities they enjoy and make sure to have a sense of humor in their day-to-day life.