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How we lose our minds
(Avoiding Alzheimer's disease, other dementias, depression and stress)
In the later years of life, our mental powers
naturally decline somewhat, though this is generally not serious.
Indeed, some verbal and other skills can improve with age.
Dementia is more than this decline. People with dementia have lost a significant number of nerve cells. The initial effects of this may seem to be no more than the normal impairment of memory, and this can make early diagnosis difficult.
Over time, though,
social interaction becomes difficult. Memory for recent events becomes
so poor that everyday activities become impossible. Withdrawal – and
problems with speech and personal care – can add to social isolation.
There’s no truly effective treatment, although
medicines are under development. These seem to be effective in stemming
the earliest symptoms but are less effective when the dementia gets to
its later stages.
However, there are steps you can take to reduce
the chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.
Some of the things you can do
Regular physical activity, especially during
your middle life, can half your risk of getting dementia.
Maintaining a lively mind and continuing manual
and mental skills into older life are also effective, helped by having
an active social life.
If you become depressed, seek help. Depressive
illness can increase your risk of dementia later in life.
Avoid head injuries.
What the book covers
The book explains
what is known about the causes of dementia
how best to avoid it, or at least delay its onset
and also how to avoid or deal with depression and stress.
Depression and stress are serious conditions that can sometimes lead to life-threatening
situations.
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Selected references for the book