Trinity Elder Law - November 2020

t Decision You’ll Make E A POWER OF ATTORNEY These designations have never been more important. I’ve always firmly believed that making someone your medical or financial power of attorney is one of the most vital decisions you make in your life, and as we have all seen, it is needed now more than ever.

CAN YOU PREVENT ALZHEIMER’S? Small Steps That Can Have a Big Impact Alzheimer’s is a cognition function and memory disease that affects more than 5.8 million people in the U.S. It can be a devastating diagnosis, and there is still no known cure. But based on the current medical understanding of this disease, there are steps you can take today to lower your risk. Keep in mind that Alzheimer’s is not fully preventable. Genetics, your environment, past health conditions, and lifestyle all play a role in a dementia diagnosis. But you can lower your risk with these three steps. Stay Active Regular exercise and a healthy diet are not only great for fitting into your favorite pair of jeans, they are helpful for your brain, too! Exercise increases the flow of oxygen to your brain, which keeps it healthy and protected as you age. Meanwhile, studies suggest that a heart-healthy diet may also be the key to protecting your brain. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the same nutrients that protect and strengthen your heart, may also benefit your brain. Plus, a healthy heart pumps a healthy amount of blood to your brain. It’s a win-win! Stay Connected Your brain needs to be challenged and engaged. What better way to do that than to connect with friends and find new hobbies? Getting involved in social or hobby groups has been shown to lower the risk of cognitive decline in participants. Researchers are still trying to find a definitive link, but the thinking is that social and mental stimulation improve your brain. Think of dinner with a friend or a painting class as your It should come as no shock that head injuries or trauma can play a significant role in your risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia. You can protect yourself by wearing a helmet when you ride your bike or Rollerblade, and always wear a seat belt in the car. This is a simple action that is usually not necessary, as we often don’t fall from our bikes or get into car accidents. But it can protect our heads in the event that an accident does happen. brain’s exercise. Stay Safe

If you were to go to the hospital — even if it were for something not related to COVID-19 — you may be restricted in what you can do. A power of attorney could help you in that situation. Heaven forbid, but if you were to become incapacitated or unconscious, your family would not have to worry about how to act on medical or financial decisions. Instead, your trusted power of attorney will be called to act. That is the only time they will have access to your accounts and decision-making. At Trinity Elder Law, our goal is to help your family and you prepare for your future, and with that comes preparing for

what may be. If you need to make adjustments to your plan or designate a power of attorney in light of COVID-19, give us a call today. You deserve the peace of mind that comes with having a plan that’s

working for you in place.

Luxurious Vegan Chocolate Mousse Making chocolate mousse with avocados may sound strange, but we promise it’s a match made in heaven! This sinfully delicious recipe is a great holiday treat.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/4 cup almond milk • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1–3 tsp maple syrup, to taste • Fresh berries, for garnish

• 4 oz vegan dark chocolate, chopped • 2 large avocados, pitted and skinned • 3 tbsp cocoa powder

DIRECTIONS

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate. Heat in 15-second intervals, then stir and repeat until melted. Set aside to cool. 2. In a food processor or blender, combine the cooled chocolate and other ingredients. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding additional sweetener as desired. 3. Scoop into glasses and refrigerate at least 2 hours. Top with berries and serve!

Learn more about dementia at the Alzheimer’s Association website, Alz.org.

724.256.8850

3

Inspired by WellPlated.com

Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs