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May you live a long, healthy and productive life. A life full of achievements, joyful moments and spiritual growth!


Remember to keep learning and growing. 

Take care of your brain!   Spread the love!


Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia


Commit to Lifelong Learning

"perpetuam uitae doctrina!"


"Live as if you were to die tomorrow.

Learn as if you were to live forever." Mahatma Gandhi.

Commit to Lifelong Learning. Open book on desk, next to a red apple

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia



Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia:

The Importance of Lifelong Learning and Mental Stimulation in Managing Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia.


Elderly, grey haired lady in pink dress hugging younger lady in blue dress. Both are smiling.


Lifelong learning and mental stimulation are important for protecting your mental health as you age.


Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia are two of the most common age-related degenerative conditions. While these conditions are not completely preventable, engaging in lifelong learning and mental stimulation can help reduce your risk.


In this article, we'll discuss what Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia are and how lifelong learning and mental stimulation can help prevent them.


What is Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive, degenerative neurological disorder that causes gradual decline in memory and thinking skills, and eventually results in significant physical impairments. It is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions of people worldwide.


Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease include difficulty with recalling recent events, confusion, difficulty with language and communication, difficulty with complex tasks, disorientation, mood changes, and changes in behavior. As the disease progresses, patients may experience greater difficulty with basic activities such as eating and dressing themselves. Eventually, Alzheimer's can lead to a total dependence on caregivers for daily functioning.

 

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's Disease, but treatments are available to help manage its symptoms and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis is important in order to access appropriate care and support. With the right treatment and management, it is possible to slow down the progression of the disease and make living with Alzheimer's more manageable.


Half face of a gold, traditional clock.


What is Dementia?

Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is often associated with the aging process, but can also affect younger people. It is characterized by gradual cognitive decline, including difficulty in remembering names and dates, trouble concentrating, problems with decision-making and problem-solving, and changes in behavior.


Common symptoms of dementia include confusion, disorientation, difficulty speaking, difficulty understanding conversations, difficulty finding the right words to express oneself, difficulty with numbers and calculations, mood swings, and personality changes.


Dementia can also cause changes in behavior such as increased aggressiveness or agitation. In some cases, dementia can cause loss of short-term memory and even long-term memory loss. As dementia progresses, it can lead to physical difficulties such as walking and balance issues.


Ultimately, dementia can be disabling and significantly reduce one's quality of life.



Types of Dementia


A cluster of white roses on the vine.

The American Alzheimer's Association Helpline:


For support and assistance, the Alzheimer's Association's toll-free helpline number is:


1-800.272.3900


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It’s A Long Goodbye

by Anonymous

A nurse in blue, assisting an older lady.

She’s leaving me, little by little, I wish she wouldn’t go.
I will be there as long as she needs me. How do I let her know?
I’d like to hold on to the memories, I’d also like to share.
But she’s further away, getting further away. And yet, she’s always there.

It’s a long good-bye, and yet I believe that she can sense us.
So much time between now and then, when it’s time against us.
There are times she almost seems like herself.
Sometimes it’s just a phase. A part of the person I once knew,
and sometimes just a trace.

It’s a long good-bye and still I don’t know just what to say.
There’s so much time between now and then,
because she goes away, a long good-bye.
Tell me how do all the others do it? There’s so much time between now and then.

How do we get through it? It’s a long good-bye.



The American Alzheimer's Association published an article on its website, entitled:

"Ten Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's". 


Here are the signs:


  1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
  2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
  3. Difficulty in completing familiar tasks
  4. Confusion with time or place
  5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
  6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
  7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
  8. Decreased or poor judgment
  9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
  10. Changes in mood and personality

Learn more....



The Importance of Lifelong Learning in the Management of Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia


Teacher guiding adult student in class

As we age, it’s important to keep learning and be intellectually engaged. Research has found that taking part in mental activities like reading, playing games, and doing puzzles can help protect the brain from the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.


One way to do this is to stay up-to-date on current events and topics in your field or hobby.


  • The Importance of Lifelong Learning in the Management of Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia, continued

    It is important to challenge yourself with physical activities such as walking, running, biking, and swimming. Not only will these activities help to keep your body strong, but they can also improve memory and other cognitive functions. Taking part in physical activities can also help reduce stress, boost your mood, and give you more energy throughout the day.


    Lastly, social activities such as attending concerts, plays, or art exhibits can provide intellectual stimulation. Conversing with friends or joining a support group can also help to enhance your sense of belonging and community. These activities can help to improve mental clarity, as well as provide an opportunity for meaningful connection with others. 


    No matter how old you are, it’s never too late to start learning something new and challenging your mind. Taking part in lifelong learning activities can help protect against the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and dementia and can make all the difference when it comes to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.


The Importance of Mental Stimulation in the Management of Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia


Five chess pieces against a white background.

Mental stimulation is an important factor in the prevention and management of Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia. Mental stimulation helps keep our minds active, can reduce cognitive decline, and may even help protect against developing dementia. Research has shown that activities like playing cards, engaging in conversation, reading, and completing puzzles can help slow cognitive decline.



  • The Importance of Mental Stimulation in the Management of Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia, continued.

    Mental stimulation activities stimulate the growth of neurons and promote better communication between brain cells. This can help to build up and maintain brain function, improve memory and cognition, and even delay the onset of Alzheimer's Disease and dementia.


    In addition to providing mental stimulation, it is also important to provide social stimulation. Socializing with friends, family members, and other people who are living with dementia can help keep a person’s mind active and engaged. Spending time with people who are different from oneself can also be beneficial as it helps to challenge one's thinking, learn new skills, and gain new perspectives on life.


    It is also important to engage in physical activity. Exercise can improve mood, reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, and enhance mental performance. Regular physical activity can also help to keep the body healthy, which in turn can reduce the risk of developing dementia.


    Finally, it is essential to practice good nutrition. Eating a balanced diet that is low in saturated fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to boost mental function and prevent age-related decline.


    In conclusion, mental stimulation is an essential factor in the prevention and management of Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia. Engaging in activities that challenge one's mind, such as reading, playing cards, completing puzzles, socializing with others, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet can all help to slow cognitive decline and even prevent the onset of dementia.


Ten Ways to Stimulate Your Brain in an Effort to Delay the Onset of Dementia


Alzheimer's disease and dementia are serious conditions that can drastically reduce a person's quality of life.



While there is no known cure, there are steps we can take to stimulate our brains and delay the onset of dementia. In this article, we'll explore 10 ways to do just that.


By engaging our minds in cognitively stimulating activities, we can maintain healthy brain function and potentially stave off the development of dementia.


1. Eat a healthy diet

One of the most important things you can do for your brain health and mental health is to eat a balanced, brain-healthy diet. 


Eating a diet that is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help protect against cognitive decline. 


Studies have found that people who follow a Mediterranean-style diet may be less likely to develop dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, ensuring that you are getting enough sleep, as well as engaging in Lifelong learning, are both critical components to maintaining good brain health. 


A healthy diet is essential for keeping your mind sharp and your body strong.


  • 2. Get regular exercise

    Exercise is essential to keeping your brain healthy. Regular physical activity has been proven to not only improve overall physical health, but also increase the growth of new brain cells and enhance cognitive abilities. 


    Exercise helps to maintain the connections between brain cells, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the release of chemicals that can protect the brain from damage. 


    Research has shown that regular exercise is linked to improved memory, longer attention span, and even delaying the onset of dementia.


    Physical activity not only strengthens our bodies but also our brains. With a lifelong commitment to regular exercise, you can expect an increase in your mental sharpness and help sustain your memory as you age. Exercise can also help improve your mood and increase mental clarity. 


    To maximize the benefits of exercise for brain health, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating a brain-healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can support brain health even further, while avoiding smoking, excessive drinking, and drug use can help to reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

  • 3. Get enough sleep

    Getting enough sleep is essential for both physical and mental health, as well as for brain health. Studies have shown that inadequate sleep can have a negative impact on your cognitive function and memory, while adequate sleep has been linked to improved focus and increased learning potential.


    Adults should aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. While this can be difficult due to busy lifestyles, it’s important to prioritize getting the right amount of sleep in order to maintain healthy brain functioning.


    For those who are at risk of developing Alzheimer's or dementia, getting enough sleep is even more critical for preventing the onset of these conditions. Poor sleep has been linked to a greater likelihood of developing Alzheimer's or dementia, so make sure you prioritize your sleep routine.


    In addition to making sure you get enough rest, other lifestyle factors such as a brain-healthy diet, exercise, and lifelong learning can help protect your brain from degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or dementia.

  • 4. Consider supplements

    It is important to remember that diet plays a huge role in your brain health, but it is also important to supplement your diet with nutrients that are necessary for mental and brain health. Taking supplements can help to improve cognitive function and boost brain health. Certain vitamins and minerals have been linked to better mental and cognitive performance, so it’s worth looking into whether there are any supplements that could benefit you.


    Some of the most important supplements for brain health include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and DHA. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can reduce the risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Vitamin B12 can help to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. DHA helps to protect neurons from damage and has been linked to improved memory.


    It is important to note that taking supplements should not replace eating a healthy diet rich in brain-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fatty fish. A healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and lifelong-learning activities can help to support good mental and brain health. Supplements can be used to augment a well-rounded diet, but they should never replace a healthy diet

  • 5. Do brain exercises

    Maintaining a healthy brain is an important part of keeping your mental and physical health in check. Brain exercises are one way to keep your brain sharp, even if you already have Alzheimer's or dementia. Brain exercises can help prevent cognitive decline and improve brain function. 


    Lifelong learning is one of the best ways to stimulate your brain. Reading books, solving puzzles, and playing brain games are all great ways to engage your mind and keep it sharp. Research has shown that regular exercise and a brain-healthy diet can help reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. 


    By taking steps to ensure good mental health, you can protect your brain from the effects of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Through regular mental stimulation, eating a balanced diet, getting regular physical activity, reducing stress, and quitting smoking, you can keep your brain functioning at its best and delay the onset of dementia.

  • 6. Play a musical instrument

    Playing a musical instrument can be a great way to help maintain and even improve your mental and brain health. Not only does learning an instrument offer lifelong learning opportunities, it also requires you to use both sides of your brain at once and helps with motor coordination and memory skills. Research has also found that playing an instrument can help reduce stress, improve mood, and even boost immunity.


    When playing a musical instrument, focus on enjoying the music rather than perfection. Start with something easy and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. You may find that even small amounts of practice can have a positive effect on your brain and overall health.

  • 7. Learn a new language

    One of the best ways to stimulate your brain and improve your mental health is to learn a new language. It can be daunting at first, but the benefits are clear. Learning a new language can help keep your brain healthy and active, and can even delay the onset of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.


    Lifelong learning is an important part of maintaining a brain-healthy diet. When you learn something new, it triggers your brain to create new pathways and connections. This can help keep your mind sharp and agile even as you age. Learning a new language can also help to improve your cognitive skills, such as memory, problem solving, and concentration.


    It’s never too late to start learning a new language. Even if you’ve never studied a foreign language before, there are plenty of resources available to help get you started. Find an online course or a tutor who can give you some guidance, or look for books or apps that provide step-by-step instructions. You can also find other language learners online who can give you tips and support.


    No matter what level of language proficiency you reach, you’ll benefit from the mental stimulation that comes with learning a new language. Take the time to focus on learning something new, and you’ll be doing your brain a big favor in the long run.Describe the item or answer the question so that site visitors who are interested get more information. You can emphasize this text with bullets, italics or bold, and add links.

  • 8. Quit smoking

    Smoking is one of the most damaging activities that a person can do to their brain health and mental health. Research has shown that smoking increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and dementia. 

    Not only is quitting smoking important for your overall health, it is also important for preserving your brain health and delaying the onset of dementia.


    Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your brain health, as well as your overall physical health. It may take time, but it is worth the effort. Studies have shown that lifelong learning and a brain-healthy diet are just as important as quitting smoking when it comes to preserving your brain health and delaying the onset of dementia. So, if you’re a smoker, quitting is the first step to maintaining your mental health and reducing your risk of dementia.

  • 9. Drink in moderation

    Alcohol consumption is a tricky subject when it comes to dementia and Alzheimer's. While moderate drinking has been found to have some beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, heavy drinking can cause significant damage to the brain. That said, if you do choose to drink, moderation is key.


    According to the National Institutes of Health, moderate drinking is defined as no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. It is also important to be aware of any potential interactions with any medications you may be taking.


    In addition to limiting alcohol consumption, drinking in moderation can also be beneficial for your brain health. Research has shown that having one or two drinks each day may help protect the brain from decline and delay the onset of dementia. Additionally, moderate drinking can improve mental health, which is an important part of lifelong learning and a brain-healthy diet. 


    It’s also important to note that while moderate drinking can have some benefits, it is not a substitute for other brain health strategies such as a nutritious diet and exercise. Always talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle, and keep in mind that moderation is key.

  • 10. Reduce stress

    Stress has a major impact on brain health and is a major factor in the development of Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. It’s important to practice stress-relieving activities in order to reduce the risk of developing dementia. 


    One of the best ways to reduce stress is to engage in lifelong learning. Doing activities that require problem-solving, such as puzzles and word games, can help boost cognitive function. Taking up a new hobby or enrolling in an adult education class can also help keep your mind sharp and reduce stress. Additionally, eating a brain-healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are also important for managing stress and maintaining mental health. 


    Making these lifestyle changes can reduce stress, increase cognitive function, and help delay the onset of dementia.Describe the item or answer the question so that site visitors who are interested get more information. You can emphasize this text with bullets, italics or bold, and add links.

Colorful hummingbird in flight.
Colorful hummingbird in flight.
Graphic of the Treble Cleff - musical

The Last Rose of Summer

Video courtesy: Julia Bloom

A single, red rose, with striped ribbon wrapped around stem.

Music and Poetry can Touch the Soul.


The Last Rose of Summer

Thomas Moore - 1779-1852


‘Tis the last rose of Summer,
  Left blooming alone;
All her lovely companions
  Are faded and gone;
No flower of her kindred,
  No rose-bud is nigh,
To reflect back her blushes
Or give sigh for sigh!


I’ll not leave thee, thou lone one,
  To pine on the stem;
Since the lovely are sleeping,
  Go sleep thou with them.
Thus kindly I scatter
  Thy leaves o’er the bed
Where thy mates of the garden
  Lie scentless and dead.


So soon may I follow,
  When friendships decay,
And from Love’s shining circle
  The gems drop away!
When true hearts lie withered,
  And fond ones are flown,
Oh! who would inhabit
  This bleak world alone?


Now, These Songs are for You! Enjoy!


May you live a long, healthy and productive life. A life full of achievements, joyful moments and spiritual growth!


Remember to keep learning and growing.


Take care of your brain!


Spread the love!



What We're Fighting For (Where Have All the Poor in Spirit Gone?)


Video courtesy: Julia Bloom

Don't Cry for Me Argentina, de A. L. Webber e T. Rice (Banda de Música Xuvenil de Castrelo-Cambados)


Video courtesy: Galician Wind Band Federation (FGBMP)


Our hope is in our youth...!


Two, little African girls, hugging each other and holding a

Research and Resources


Nurse dressed in white, assisting elderly lady with crossword puzzle.
An elderly man in a wheelchair, being assisted by a male nurse.



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Alzheimer's Disease International is an international organization which works with Alzheimer and dementia associations in 120 countries to raise awareness of the critical need for the international community to give Alzheimer's disease and dementia a high priority when addressing key international issues and setting national budgets. 


ADI, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, works to encourage countries around the world to, "implement and fund dementia action plans, and monitor their effectiveness."

Learn more...



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Unconventional But Effective Therapy for Alzheimer's Treatment.

Dr. Mary T. Newport at TEDx Talks

Video courtesy: TEDx Talks



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