As populations start to age around the globe, a higher incidence of dementia can be expected among others. Though some extent of age-related forgetfulness can be expected, dementia is not a normal part of aging. Some evidence has pointed toward making the right lifestyle changes in a bid to reduce the risk of getting dementia in your golden years.
Read on to find out how maintaining a healthy lifestyle with assisted living in Roanoke, VA, can reduce your dementia risk.
Lifestyle Factors that Support Good Health
In order to grasp the lifestyle changes you will need to make, it’s important to first understand the factors that support good health, both physically and cognitively. These include:
- Physical Fitness
While physical fitness is not all there is to keeping healthy, it’s definitely an important piece of the puzzle. Besides exercising regularly, it’s also important to take a look at your diet and lifestyle habits. For instance, quitting smoking and ensuring that you eat a balanced diet will go a long way.
- Social Engagement
Having a healthy social life contributes to better overall well-being. Older adults who are socially isolated can find themselves suffering from depression, anxiety, and a range of mental health issues that may increase the risk of cognitive decline.
- Mental Stimulation
Instead of remaining idle in your golden years, think about the activities you enjoy doing. Whether that is playing card games with neighbors or undertaking a new creative endeavor, it does not matter so much what you choose to do as that it helps to keep your mind sharp and active.
- Sufficient Rest
As you get older, you may have noticed that you experienced more problems with sleep, whether there is insomnia or trouble staying asleep. Getting sufficient rest is essential for your overall health. If you find that you have trouble falling or staying asleep, following several best practices, such as ensuring a conducive environment for sleep, can help.
How Assisted Living Can Help You Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Unfortunately, it can be the case that aging in place is not doing anything to support your overall health. If you have mobility limitations that make it hard to get out and about, not only will you miss out on physical exercise, but chances are, you are also not getting the social engagement you need. When this is the case, more than one aspect of your health suffers. This can also affect your diet and living environment as you find it hard to prepare meals or keep the house clean.
When you make the move to assisted living in Roanoke, VA, you can be sure that your every need will be taken care of. From three nutritionally balanced meals a day to a schedule of mentally stimulating and social activities, you will not have to worry about lacking the services or amenities to get your basic needs met. You will be well placed to keep your body fit, your mind active and your social life full and in turn, your risk of developing dementia down!
