One Way to Avoid Alzheimer’s

by ElderCarelink

If you want your senior parents to stay mentally sharp, you may want to buy a gym membership for their next gift.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, new research is uncovering how we may be able to prevent it. Among the research is a study published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. It found those who achieved at least a medium state of fitness were less likely to die from a dementia-related death.

Although exercise is beneficial, seniors should be cautious. The National Institutes of Health warn that elders who haven't exercised in a long time should consult their physician before starting and slowly increase their activity levels.

To get the senior in your life more active, consider these tips:

Find exercise programs or activities that can be incorporated into their daily lives.
Activities should appeal to the individual and suit his or her lifestyle, budget and health.
Create a schedule or routine in which exercise takes place several short times during the day such as stretching in the morning, walking to the mailbox and using cans as light weights before cooking.
Of course, your loved one might be more likely to exercise if you join in. Heading to the local superstore to walk a few laps with your mom can be a great way to not only improve her physical health but also break up her day and give her the social interaction she probably craves.

If it isn't practical for you to help with physical activity, check out local senior centers and adult day cares which may arrange for activities designed to help older individuals stay active.
You can find more information at ElderCarelink.com including a list of day cares and other resources in your area.