One of the most common cognitive issues in the elderly population is Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers state that it is considered a leading cause of dementia and is characterized by deteriorations in cognition and behavior, with the most significant symptom at the early stages being memory loss (Zhang et al., 2021, p. 313). This issue is caused by many genetic and environmental factors that should be considered within the preventative measures to mitigate the risks of disease development.
The contributing factors of Alzheimer’s disease include genetics conditioned by family health history and lifestyle or environment. Research shows that the causes might consist of “intoxications, infections, abnormality in the pulmonary and circulatory systems, which causes a reduction in the oxygen supply to the brain, nutritional deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, tumors, and others” (Breijyeh & Karaman, 2020, p. 1). In addition, Alzheimer’s disease is most commonly observed in the population aged 65 and older (Zhang et al., 2021, p. 313). The impacted population includes not only patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease but also their caregivers and family members due to the high levels of exposure to stress and daily hardships associated with the issue (Zhang et al., 2021, pp. 313-314). For that matter, preventative measures should include interventions for both patients at risk of this cognitive issue development and their families.
In particular, prevention should be based on addressing the identified causes and risk factors. For example, continued education in older age, cognitive exercises, socialization, and bilingualism have demonstrated significant positive outcomes in preventing Alzheimer’s disease (Zhang et al., 2021, pp. 313-314). In addition, a healthy diet, regular sleep regimen, physical activity, reduced stress, and smoking and alcohol cessation are essential components of a comprehensive preventative strategy (Zhang et al., 2021, pp. 314-315). Therefore, implementing these elements might minimize elderly patients’ risks of developing Alzheimer’s disease and facilitate their prolonged cognitive well-being.
References
Breijyeh, Z., & Karaman, R. (2020). Comprehensive review on Alzheimer’s disease: causes and treatment. Molecules, 25(24), 1-28. Web.
Zhang, X. X., Tian, Y., Wang, Z. T., Ma, Y. H., Tan, L., & Yu, J. T. (2021). The epidemiology of Alzheimer’s disease modifiable risk factors and prevention. The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, 8, 313-321. Web.