June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, so we wanted to take a little time and help bring more awareness to the disease.
Here at DRMTGLY, we’ve felt the tragic effects of the disease first hand, and we want to do our part to ensure that researchers get the resources they desperately need. In an effort to get them those resources, we will be donating 15% of our profits from the weekend of Friday, June 14th to Sunday, June 16th to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation.
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. A progressive disease that destroys both memory and other important cognitive abilities, it is devastating for those that contract it, and can be equally difficult for the victims’ loved ones. Alzheimer’s a very individually-based disease, as its symptoms develop for everyone differently. For some, the symptoms come on rapidly in full-force, but for others it can be a steady decline over a long period of time.
Right now, 5 million Americans suffer from the disease, and while currently there is no cure, promising research is underway. Scientists, doctors, and medical professionals across the globe are studying Alzheimer’s more each year, and the more we learn about how the disease works, the closer we get to finding a cure.
Though a cure doesn’t yet exist, research has helped inform us about preventative measures that do seem to help fend off the disease. A very small percentage of people can develop Alzheimer’s from genetic mutations, but for the vast majority of us, implementing healthier lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of mental decline. Though research is still rather limited, the following changes have been shown to reduce the likeliness of the disease.
Avoid Head Injuries
Serious head trauma has been linked to the development of Alzheimer’s. Take safety precautions whenever possible. Wear a helmet when riding bikes, skateboards, and motorcycles, and always remember your seat belt.
Stay Socially Active
Because Alzheimer’s essentially kills brain cells, it is important to keep your brain stimulated and active. Keep up a regular social calendar and attempt to keep your brain intellectually stimulated. Again, the research is limited in this area, but mental stimulation seems to reinforce the connections between the brain and the nerve cells.
Diet and Exercise
Poor heart health has also been linked to Alzheimer’s. Daily exercise increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain and helps maintain a properly functioning cardiovascular system. Heart-healthy diets are also imperative to brain functionality, so try to incorporate more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and cut back on saturated fats and sugars.
We hope that with your help, our contributions will help put an end to this abhorrent disease. We will continue to make a conscious effort to donate to social causes that affect millions of people each year.