Memory Loss and Alzheimer's disease

Monica spoke with 3 experts about Memory Loss. Dementia and Alzheimer’s and learned that while they are not interchangeable, one leads to the other. Age is a common denominator in memory loss, but so are smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Unfortunately those are the same leading factors in the demise of health for many African Americans in general. A diet consisting of lean meats, vegetables and plenty of water can help as well as exercise and playing games that stimulate the brain. Games that you can play on your phone like Words w/ Friends, or Crossword puzzles, Sudoku and even jigsaw puzzles (which help with visual and special cognitive functions) are suggested along with Music, Sports and Exercise. Isolation can play a factor, so socializing is important. Some things to look out for if you suspect you or a loved one is developing memory loss are: becoming increasingly forgetful, repetitive, mood changes, lack of hygiene, muscle indifference, refusal to take medications or do simple daily tasks. It is important for Black people to A) Get a baseline Memory Test @ age 50 B) Become part of the research process. There are no drugs to cure memory loss but there are medications to slow the process. Vitamins B12 and D are good, but be careful of OTC supplements. ON AIR QUESTION & RESPONSE; Is there a connection between HIV and dementia? Answer: The infection of HIV leads to inflammation throughout the body as well as the brain which can cause the death of brain cells which is called Apoptosis. For more information or to connect with our guests; Robin Rountree and Bridget Monroe with Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center (adrccares.org 407/436-7750 or Dr. Malisa Agard @ conquestresearch.com 407/916-0060