News & Events for Welch Healthcare & Retirement Group

05/15/12

Keep Moving to Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk 

Play a game of cards. Tidy up the house. Do a little cooking. According to a recent study conducted at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and published in the April 18 issue of Neurology, activities like these can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. CBS News recently featured the study’s findings, which indicate that even small things can make a difference.

The activity levels of participants were measured with a special device worn on their wrists as they went about their daily routines for 10 days. Participants also reported their physical and social activities to the researchers. The subjects’ average age was 82. In the follow-up, those who were in the bottom 10 percent of the physical activity measurements were 2.3 times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease when compared to those in the top 10 percent, and 2.8 times more likely to develop the disease when compared to the most physically active.

At a time when the projected number of people who will develop Alzheimer’s disease is increasing dramatically, information like this is heartening. It encourages even the oldest among us to keep moving, keep active, and stay engaged.

However, for many older adults who are already experiencing some signs of memory loss or dementia there are a host of programs and housing options available that are specifically designed with their needs in mind. Allerton House at Proprietors Green in Marshfield offers an assisted living memory care neighborhood and Allerton House at Harbor Park in Hingham offers housing and services to residents of their assisted living who say they are experiencing memory loss. Contact the Allerton House of your choice to inquire about services.