When it comes to dementia, a fact most people don’t know is that those with diabetes have a 65% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, according to the World Journal of Diabetes.
Marty Finley, M.Ed., Sun Health’s lead Memory Care Navigator says, “It’s also true that many of those with diabetes aren’t even aware they have the condition, going undiagnosed and untreated. Given the fact that diabetes is common among adults over the age of 65, affecting one in four, these higher risk individuals might be your wife, your husband, your best friend or your neighbor.”
So how does diabetes lead to increased risk of memory loss? The reasons are simple; long-term exposure to sugar in the blood harms the body in multiple ways, ranging from inflammation that damages brain cells and blood circulation to unbalanced brain chemicals from insulin. This is why Finley wants to share information with the community about an upcoming event focused on diabetes prevention and management.
Sun Health’s annual Diabetes Expo will be held on Friday, Nov. 12th, from 8:30 to 11 a.m. at the Colonnade and on a Zoom broadcast. This is a no-cost event that will allow you to learn more about managing diabetes and your overall health. Call (623) 207-1703 to register for this event.
Finley also remarks, “A recent Harvard Medical study from over the summer pointed out another major reason diabetes leads to memory loss. Diabetes has negative effects on the heart, and heart health is related to brain health. Heart disease and elevated blood pressure are both associated with strokes that, in turn, can lead to dementia.”
Lastly, Finley reminds us that social activities, a positive attitude, learning new things, and music can all help your brain work at its best and reduce your risk of dementia.
After all, preventing dementia isn’t just about managing brain fitness, but also those other conditions that make an impact, too. Sun Health offers a variety of wellness classes from Memory Cafés to Tai Chi. To view Sun Health’s LiveWell class calendar, visit https://www.sunhealthwellness.org/
Already diagnosed with dementia? Sun Health’s Memory Care Navigator program can help those with memory loss and their family members and friends to identify support, services and resources that may be helpful in navigating the dementia journey. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call (623) 471-9300, or visit http://sunhealth.org/memorycare.
