Active Aging Week celebrates the idea that aging is not defined by limitations, but by possibilities. For individuals living with dementia, this belief is powerful.
Dementia affects the brain in ways that can make eating less appealing. According to the Alzheimer's Association, "poor nutrition may increase behavioral symptoms and cause weight loss." Some common reasons for appetite loss include:
Sensory changes – Taste and smell may diminish, making food less enjoyable
Medication side effects – Some prescriptions can alter appetite or cause nausea.
Type 2 diabetes, or adult-onset diabetes, is a chronic disease that impacts about 34 million Americans. If left untreated or unproperly managed, a person can develop heart and kidney disease, blindness, damage to blood vessels and nerves, or an increased risk of dementia.
June is nationally recognized as Men's Health Month. Maintaining brain health is crucial for preventing dementia in aging men. The brain is responsible for controlling our thoughts, emotions, and actions and it is essential to keep it functioning at its best.
In a world where fad diets come and go, one dietary pattern has stood the test of time. A Mediterranean diet is revered not just for its delicious flavors, but also for its remarkable health benefits.
Nutrition and its connection to brain health as related to dementia progression has sparked the interest of many experts within recent years due to growing evidence that certain foods may be able to slow down cognitive decline.
Going out to eat with someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can be challenging. Preparing ahead of time can make for a successful and enjoyable dining experience for everyone.
