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June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month...

is a chance for the Alzheimer’s Association to hold a global conversation about the brain, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Everyone who has a brain is at risk to develop Alzheimer’s, which is the only leading cause of death that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed.

During June, we not only ask you to wear purple and use your brain to help fight Alzheimer’s disease we invite you to participate in one of our many events held throughout the month including The Longest Day on June 21…a sunrise-to-sunset event to honor those facing Alzheimer’s with strength, passion and endurance. Start a team today to raise funds and awareness.

Go Purple

The Facts

End Alz

10 Ways to Love Your Brain

  • BREAK A SWEAT: Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise that elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow to the brain and body. Several studies have found an association between physical activity and reduced risk of cognitive decline.
  • BUTT OUT: Evidence shows that smoking increases risk of cognitive decline. Quitting smoking can reduce that risk to levels comparable to those who have not smoked.
  • HEADS UP!: Brain injury can raise your risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Wear a seat belt, use a helmet when playing contact sports or riding a bike, and take steps to prevent falls.
  • CATCH SOME ZZZ’S: Not getting enough sleep due to conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea may result in problems with memory and thinking.
  • BUDDY UP: Staying socially engaged may support brain health. Pursue social activities that are meaningful to you. Find ways to be part of your local community – if you love animals, consider volunteering at a local shelter. If you enjoy singing, join a local choir or help at an afterschool program. Or, just share activities with friends and family.
  • STUMP YOURSELF: Challenge and activate your mind. Build a piece of furniture. Complete a jigsaw puzzle. Do something artistic. Play games, such as bridge, that make you think strategically. Challenging your mind may have short and long-term benefits for your brain.
  • HIT THE BOOKS: Formal education in any stage of life will help reduce your risk of cognitive decline and dementia. For example, take a class at a local college, community center or online.
  • FOLLOW YOUR HEART: Evidence shows that risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke – obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes – negatively impact your cognitive health. Take care of your heart, and your brain just might follow.
  • FUEL UP RIGHT: Eat a healthy and balanced diet that is higher in vegetables and fruit to help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Although research on diet and cognitive function is limited, certain diets, including Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may contribute to risk reduction.
  • TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH: Some studies link a history of depression with increased risk of cognitive decline, so seek medical treatment if you have symptoms of depression, anxiety or other mental health concerns. Also, try to manage stress.
  • Growing evidence indicates that people can reduce their risk of cognitive decline by adopting key lifestyle habits. When possible, combine these habits to achieve maximum benefit for the brain and body. Start now. It’s never too late or too early to incorporate healthy habits.

Local Events

For full details on our education programs, visit here.

 

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The Longest Day®

Join people across the globe as they join together to honor those facing Alzheimer’s disease by participating in The Longest Day® on Friday, June 21, 2019.

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Go Purple | Join us to #ENDALZ | Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter