21 September is World Alzheimer’s Day, which aims to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders. In Finland, the number of people with Alzheimer’s disease is increasing and it is estimated that by 2040 there will be a quarter of a million people with memory problems in the country.
Alzheimer’s disease is a slowly progressive memory disease whose prevalence increases dramatically with age. The disease gradually affects a person’s memory, thinking and behaviour, and its progression can eventually make everyday life challenging. Alzheimer’s disease has far-reaching effects on both those affected and their loved ones.
Lifestyle is a major factor in the development of memory diseases. Certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders. However, making or maintaining major lifestyle changes can be challenging and may even cause extra strain. For most of us, the easier way to achieve a healthier lifestyle is to do a series of small daily actions. Together, these small actions can make a big difference to brain health.
The BitHabit Small Deeds app has been developed for just this purpose. BitHabit doesn’t call for big steps, but encourages you to develop a healthier lifestyle through small, daily actions.
What one small thing could I do today?
We can each do small but meaningful things for our brain health. The BitHabit Small Actions app helps you repeat the actions you choose every day, and with frequent repetition, they become a new, healthier way of life.
Exercise improves blood flow to the brain and is an effective way to protect the brain. Call a friend and invite them to join you for a jog. By increasing your physical activity, you can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and memory problems, and you’ll both enjoy being together.
Nutrition plays an important role in maintaining brain health, and even small changes in diet can bring long-term benefits. For example, eat a handful of nuts. Nuts give you soft fats, which contain essential fatty acids that are good for your body and promote brain health.
Regularly challenging your brain with daily tasks can help keep it fit and alert. Turn the names of your loved ones or places backwards in your mind and say them out loud. This kind of brain challenge and activation stimulates the brain and can prevent cognitive decline.
Social life is as important for brain well-being as physical and mental activity. Offer your help to a loved one or neighbour. Paying attention to each other and focusing on positive things increases well-being and supports brain health.
Sleep is essential for brain recovery, so prioritising sleep is a simple and effective way to maintain brain health. Decide on a bedtime in advance and stick to it. Maintaining a regular sleep rhythm is one of the cornerstones of sleep care.
Which of these small actions could you make part of your everyday life today?
Take a free brain and memory health survey at this link and get a free trial of the BitHabit Small Actions app.
