For a variety of reasons, women are more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s than men. Some of the causes are biological, while others are due to lifestyle choices. Below you’ll find some of the reasons women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and what your senior loved one can do to treat the disease or reduce the risk.
Mitochondria
Mitochondria provide energy to the brain cells. Without these powerhouses of the cells, the brain becomes unprotected, raising the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Younger women are protected against amyloid toxicity due to mitochondria. However, as women age, this protection begins to decrease and the odds of oxidative stress increase, leading to issues such as memory loss and other Alzheimer’s symptoms. Women can develop healthy habits to boost mitochondria, such as exercising, eating nutritious meals, getting plenty of rest, and meditating as often as possible.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Embrace In-Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Longevity
One of the top risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease is age. Most individuals diagnosed with the condition are over the age of 65. Since women are likely to live longer than men, they’re at higher risk for Alzheimer’s. Although the condition is diagnosed in many adults in their late 60s, signs generally start appearing ten years or more before testing. However, the symptoms are usually mild, and people confuse them as a normal part of the aging process. If your loved one shows signs of memory loss, cognitive impairment, aggression, confusion, and poor judgment, take him or her to the doctor immediately to determine if he or she is experiencing early-onset Alzheimer’s.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional in-home care. Green Valley families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Heart Health
Heart disease is one of the top causes of death among senior men under the age of 65. However, individuals who live beyond this age generally have stronger cardiovascular health, which could reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Senior women have a higher risk of dying from heart disease, and plaque buildup in the arteries can lead to vascular damage. Older women who maintain good heart health increase their circulation, and strong blood flow is vital to the survival and functioning of the brain cells.
Prevention Tips & Possible Treatment
Seniors who stop smoking, control stress, manage their blood pressure and cholesterol levels, exercise, socialize, and eat plenty of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients can lower their risk of Alzheimer’s.
If your loved one develops this disease, the treatment options could include medication. While there’s no cure for Alzheimer’s, medicine could reduce some symptoms associated with the disease and boost your loved one’s quality of life. The most commonly prescribed medications are called cholinesterase inhibitors, and they can manage multiple issues, including behavioral problems.
If your senior loved one has Alzheimer’s and needs help managing daily tasks, reach out to Embrace In-Home Care, a leading provider of Alzheimer’s care. Green Valley Embrace In-Home Care provides reliable caregivers around the clock to help your loved one age in place safely and comfortably while living with Alzheimer’s disease. If you need professional care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (520) 625-2050.