JANVIER: MOIS DE LA SENSIBILISATION À LA MALADIE D’ALZHEIMER

Did you know that the best way to reduce your risk of developing a cognitive disease is to lead a healthy lifestyle? Since January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, now is an ideal time to adopt or reinforce behaviours that keep your brain healthy. Here are some recommendations provided by the Alzheimer Society of Canada:

• Challenge yourself. Learn a new language or take on a task like writing with your non-dominant hand.

• Play games. There are brainboosting benefits to solving crosswords, playing chess and completing puzzles.

• Talk to people. Engage in conversations about current events, books, music, sports and more.

• Eat a balanced diet. Make sure to follow the recommendations in Canada’s Food Guide.

• Exercise regularly. Keep in mind that it’s easier to stay motivated if you choose activities you enjoy.

• Reduce your stress. Explore a variety of strategies such as speaking with a psychologist, meditating, journaling and practising yoga.

• Prioritize sleep. Get seven to nine hours of rest every night and avoid looking at screens before you go to bed.

• Protect your head. Wear a helmet when cycling or skiing, and consider adapting your home to reduce the risk of falls.

• Quit unhealthy habits. Regularly consuming alcohol, cigarettes and recreational drugs can negatively impact your brain health.

• Manage chronic illnesses. Diabetes increases your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, so make sure to manage your condition closely under the supervision of your doctor.

• Volunteer. Giving back to your community can help prevent depression, reduce loneliness and increase self-esteem. For more tips on how to keep your brain healthy, visit alzheimer.ca.