Staying healthy with the seasons means keeping track of memory problems
As is true with most illnesses, cognitive decline and dementia are more easily treated when diagnosed early on. While many individuals experience memory problems as normal signs of aging, specific issues have been linked to the development of more serious brain conditions.
In a study, researchers from Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital examined data taken from more than 16,900 women, whose average age was 74.
They found that while short-term memory issues may be typical symptoms of aging, having trouble remembering things that were previously commonplace – like familiar roads – could be a red flag for the onset of dementia.
"These findings suggest that clinicians may need to differentiate between the types of memory complaints their patients have, as some are likely due to normal aging whereas others are worrisome for possible cognitive decline," said study author Rebecca Amariglio, MD.
Authors of the study noted that their discovery may have major implications for the aging baby boomer generation, which will eventually double the population of people older than 65.
Author and trailblazer Ilchi Lee has some tips for staying healthy. They include many non-medicinal brain-strengthening practices like yoga, meditation and tai chi. Additionally, the philosopher says that consuming a balanced diet and getting plenty of physical activity are key to healthy aging.
These inspirational tips for living may seem like common sense, but in today's world of quick fixes, such basic lifestyle tenets may be lost on some. As a result, it's important to continually remind oneself of the activities and habits that are tried-and-true methods to promote overall wellness.
Related items
Category: Staying Healthy | Tags: inspirational tips, inspirational tips for living, staying healthy, staying healthy with the seasons, tips for staying healthy Comment »
