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February is American Heart Month, and our heart health directly impacts our cognitive health. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) Director, Dr. Walter J. Koroshetz, reminds us of how important it is to control “vascular risk factors like high blood pressure early in life in an effort to prevent dementia as we age. What’s good for the heart is good for the brain. ” Heart disease risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, elevated blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking, have also been shown to be risk factors for dementia. General cognitive decline is particularly significant in individuals with high cholesterol. The good news is that you can take steps to reduce your risk of cognitive decline and make a positive impact on your heart health at the same time. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified at least a dozen things that can easily be done. Steps to a healthy heart and brain:
Memory Cafés A Memory Café is a warm, welcoming environment for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. They are designed to include family members and caregivers as well (if they are involved), for a shared experience. Additionally, they can be helpful for people with all forms of mild cognitive impairment. They are a place to talk with others who understand what you are going through, to forget your limitations and instead focus on strengths, socialize, and explore something new. All cafés have a shared goal – to help guests feel comfortable and to know that they are not alone. Let It Be – Memory Café is hosting a virtual concert series, each month a different local band or musical will come and provide musical entertainment for your enjoyment! The next café will be Sunday February 20th 2022, from 1:00pm-2:00pm via Zoom (click here) February’s musical theme will be Country/Rodeo with special guest singer & songwriter Freddy Parish! Zoom Meeting ID: 869 9389 8633 Passcode: 225829 Contact: Marven Page – 520.477.2389 or MPage@ichd.net
• Eat healthy foods – consult a medical professional about nutrition options for your heart and brain health • Stop smoking and limit alcohol • Stay physically active (For adults 65 and over, WHO recommends at
Volunteers Needed One of the greatest gifts you can give is your time. Volunteering is a great way to help those with memory loss. If you enjoy hosting parties or
least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity per week) • Stay mentally active – engaging in activities that stimulate your brain • See your doctor – diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can all increase your risk of heart issues and dementia If you have one or more risk factors for dementia and heart disease, talk to your doctor and make a plan to get them under control. Your plan may include dietary, activity, other lifestyle changes or medication. Establishing or continuing healthy habits can help to mitigate current risk factors and may decrease the risk for others later in life – helping you in the path to a healthier heart and brain. A healthy brain and a healthy heart—that’s a win-win!
Memory concerns? Call the PCOA Helpline at 520.790.7262 or visit our website to complete a referral form online https://www.pcoa.org/dementiareferral/ To learn more about becoming a Memory Café volunteer contact Mary O’Donoghue, Volunteer Services Coordinator at 520.258.5062 . events, spending time getting to know others, and showing others that they are valued and appreciated, volunteering at a memory café might be a great fit for you. Like many of our programs, Memory Cafés rely on the dedication and commitment of volunteers.
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Pima Council on Aging
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