As you age, you might start to wonder how you can best support your brain health and prevent memory problems from occurring. While it is not a guarantee that memory loss or dementia is preventable, you can support your brain in a variety of ways.

Around 55 million people in the world have some form of dementia, so it is a very common issue that affects a large population. The occasional memory slip like losing your keys or having trouble recalling someone’s name is not usually a cause for concern.

But Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are more aggressive and consistent. If you are interested in learning more about how dementia affects the brain, our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team shares the details below.

How Does Dementia Attack the Brain?

Dementia is an umbrella term that covers loss of memory from a variety of different diseases that are severe enough to impact daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common, making up 60 to 80% of all known cases.

Dementia is caused by extensive damage to specific brain cells. The damage hinders the ability for the cells to communicate with each other, and when the communication cannot happen, normal functions like thinking, feeling and behavior are diminished. This can range from the beginning stages of simple memory troubles and will progress all the way to not being able to care for yourself or having a massive change in behavior.

Indications of Dementia

• Misplacing items frequently
• Deepening confusion about events and people
• Mood and behavior changes
• Difficulty speaking, walking or swallowing

Can Dementia Be Avoided?

Since we cannot control our age and genetics, dementia is not 100% avoidable. However, you can take steps to support your brain health every day, and the sooner you take them, the better chance you have of avoiding a memory disease.

Stay active and make your physical and mental health a priority! Having a healthy body throughout your life will support you into your old age. Other key factors include eating right and getting quality sleep so your body can function at its best.

Lowering Your Dementia Risk

• Consistent exercise throughout life
• Social engagement with peers and family
• A healthy diet
• Stress management throughout life

Wondering whether your memory loss is normal or something more serious? Come to AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. to meet with our care team.