How to detect early signs of dementia and how to combat it

"Dementia" is a term used to describe a decline in mental ability that is so severe as to affect daily life, explains the Alzheimer's Association. It is important to recognize that Alzheimer's is a form of dementia but that not all dementia is Alzheimer's. There are several forms of dementia, with some of the more common ones being Huntington's Disease, Parkinson's Disease and Vascular Dementia.
Although symptoms of dementia vary from person to person, you should see a doctor if at least two of your core mental functions are impaired. Core mental functions are memory, communication and language, ability to focus and pay attention, reasoning and judgement, and visual perception.
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Pay attention to these early signs of dementia:
1. Short-term memory loss
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Difficulty thinking and memory loss are two more neurological signs of early onset of dementia.
2. Difficulty finding words
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If you are having a hard time finding the words or speaking, you will want to take notice of changes in your speech. Be sure to seek help from a loved one to get their feedback.
3. Changes in mood or behavior
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Anxiety, depression and extreme ups and downs can be another early signal. Your body may not be producing enough mood-regulating chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine.
4. Difficulty following conversations
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Be aware if you are having issues following a conversation or understanding what others around your are saying whether in the workplace or at home.
5. Problems managing money
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If adding or subtracting simple numbers suddenly becomes a challenge, take note. You want to pay attention to behaviors that prevent you from operating independently in daily life.
5. Loss of interest in hobbies
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Watch out if you are finding yourself losing interest in your usual hobbies and activities. If you are ever unsure about yourself when it comes to your health, be sure to consult a professional medical doctor.
The most important method of combating dementia is to promote one's brain health. Whether or not you exhibit early signs of dementia and regardless of your age, it is never too early to become proactive about your brain health:
1. Adopt a Mediterranean diet
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Think about nourishing the brain the same way you do the rest of the body: with healthy nutrients. Everyday Health reports a Mediterranean diet focused on omega-3-rich fish, nuts, whole grains, olive oil and fresh produce is among the best brain health diets.
2. Antioxidants are your friend
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Antioxidants in green tea, caffeine in coffee and curcumin in turmeric are also linked to improved memory and a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease.
3. Exercise your way to a healthy brain
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A healthy body has long been linked to a healthy mind. According to Everyday Health, a massive nearly 40-year study tracking 19,000 people found that cardiovascular fitness is directly linked to risk of dementia. So put on your running shoes; it's time to exercise your way to a healthy brain.
Consider exercising outside as opposed to a gym. The vitamin D from the sun is thought to clear the brain of plaque buildup and thus prevent Alzheimer's disease.
4. Sleep!
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Sleep is yet another way in which the body naturally cleanses the brain of toxic plaque. Be sure to get eight hours of sleep each night, and don't fight drowsiness during the day. Embrace it. Take a nap.
5. Learn something new
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Another excellent way to exercise the brain is to learn something new. Pick up a language or an instrument. Read often, play memorization games and do crossword puzzles. The maxim "If you don't use it, you lose it," is very much true for the brain. Challenge your brain every single day.
Do you have a favorite memory game? Tell us and share this article on social media.
RemedyDaily.com does not give medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.