As people ponder New Year’s resolutions, those from the Alzheimer’s Association are encouraging people to think about incorporating more exercise into their lives.
Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Missouri vice president of programs Sarah Lovegreen said research shows that healthy lifestyle choices, such as exercise, can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and help reduce the risk of dementia.
“We know it helps our heart,” Lovegreen said. “We know it helps our brain and also when we think of brain help, we also think of ways to challenge our brain, ways to stay socially engaged, ways to try new things, and the exercise can also give us all of these opportunities.”
Lovegreen said exercise doesn’t just help with short-term impacts.
“We know that Alzheimer’s disease, and some of these hallmark brain changes that we see in our brains, can kick in 20 years before we see symptoms in our bodies and in our behavior,” Lovegreen said. “It’s important to start at any age, no matter where you are on the age spectrum, exercise and these healthy habits will have a positive impact on brain health down the line.”
Mark Applegate’s mother, Brenda, has terminal Alzheimer’s disease.
Applegate said at the start of his diagnosis that he weighed over 360 pounds.
“I just learned what Alzheimer’s disease is even in the world three years ago, Applegate said. ‘to prevent ?
He said he quickly discovered that exercise and running could help him.
“Right now I’m doing what they call the 5K a day challenge, so I’m running 5K a day,” Applegate said.
He said he has now lost over 100 pounds and encourages others to reflect on their overall health as the New Year approaches.
“I’m still bod dad,” Applegate said. “I’m not exactly Jeff Galloway, the distance runner. Is it worth it. Anything we can do to get rid of this disease, we will do.
To learn more about Applegate’s journey, click here.
The Alzheimer’s Association has more tips on how to help love your brain.
