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Healthier Hawaii: Warning signs of dementia, tips for healthy aging brains
Hawaii News Now • • health
Key Points:
- Dr. Marissa Sakoda explains that normal aging can cause mild short-term memory lapses, such as forgetting where you put items or struggling to recall names, while more serious memory issues affecting daily tasks may signal neurodegenerative diseases like dementia or Alzheimer’s.
- Dementia is a broad term for memory loss impacting daily function, with Alzheimer’s being the most common form; although incurable, its progression can be slowed through treatments and lifestyle changes.
- If serious memory symptoms arise, individuals should consult a primary care physician for screening and possible referral to a neurologist to rule out other causes like medication effects or vitamin deficiencies.
- To support brain health, Sakoda recommends regular exercise, a Mediterranean-style diet, quality sleep, and staying socially engaged, emphasizing that what benefits the heart also benefits the brain.
- While there is no definitive evidence that memory games prevent cognitive decline, engaging in enjoyable mentally stimulating activities can help keep the brain active and reduce excessive screen time.
