Doing More to Fight Dementia

Istock Brain Aging and Dementia Do you ever forget the name of an actor or a song or someone you knew in school or the PIN for your ATM card? If you're like a growing number of people,

you might start to worry that something is wrong with your brain. But in most cases, you needn't worry. We all forget things on occasion. It's usually normal and no cause for

alarm. Still, the growing anxiety over brain health reflects an ominous trend: The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias is increasing sharply. And that trend could take

a devastating toll on individuals, families and the entire health care system. Costs for treating dementia are rising astronomically. One study found that by 2050, $1 out of every $3 spent

by Medicare will go to dementia, and overall costs will exceed $1 trillion. MORE PLAIN ENGLISH * Let's make prescriptions less costly * Thank you for not smoking * Technology aids our

independence * Preventive Care may be ACA’s greatest achievement We cannot afford to stay on this course. It's time for society to recognize the magnitude of this problem and respond

much more aggressively. While the ultimate goal is finding a cure, we need ways to slow the progress of dementia after it has begun. Also, we can do much more to improve care for people

living with dementia. Family caregivers need support to help their loved ones live comfortably at home for as long as possible. More specialized training for health aides can improve care

and lower costs. Although we don't know how to prevent Alzheimer's, there is some evidence that people can reduce their risk of cognitive impairments by adopting certain lifelong

habits that promote good health. The AARP Staying Sharp initiative recommends that people get regular exercise, eat right, reduce stress, stay socially engaged and continue to learn

throughout their lives. I believe we all should support the development of a cure for dementia. But in the meantime, while we await that much-needed breakthrough, I hope you will join me in

the challenge to practice good habits for your brain health every day. _ _