Worldwide, more than 55 million people are living with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, and two-thirds of Americans have at least one major potential risk factor for dementia. As a nurse, I have spent the last twenty years of my career walking alongside seniors and their family members as they navigate these challenging diseases. The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia is life-changing for everyone involved. That is why at Spring Arbor Senior Living, we are strong advocates and supporters of Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness month which takes place every June.
We are trained to think about ways to stay healthy. Everything from daily exercise to weight management, most individuals focus on physical appearance as an indication of good health but we don’t often think about ways to protect and strengthen our minds. Our brain's health isn't something to consider only in our later years. It’s a lifelong endeavor, much like caring for our physical heart or lungs. We nourish our brains through our diet, our activities, and even our social connections. As we recognize Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness month, I encourage each of you to engage in mentally stimulating activities – reading, learning a new language, solving puzzles, or picking up a new hobby. These aren't just enjoyable pastimes; they're investments in cognitive reserve, and work to build the brain's resilience against decline.
Diet is another cornerstone of brain health. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, isn't just good for your cardiovascular system, it’s a feast for your brain cells. Let's not forget the power of physical activity. Regular exercise, even a brisk walk, increases blood flow to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients. It's a simple, yet profoundly effective way to support our cognitive function.
Beyond prevention, there’s the critical aspect "awareness". How many times, do we dismiss the early signs of cognitive change as he or she is "just getting old." While some memory lapses are a normal part of aging, persistent or worsening problems warrant a conversation with a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis of Alzheimer's doesn't offer a cure; it does opens doors to treatments that can help manage symptoms and provide access to vital support services. These early interventions allow families to adapt, seek sources for education and to make informed decisions about care. More importantly, it helps families focus not only on what might be forgotten – but what can be preserved. For example, families can begin documenting the life of their loved one early on after a diagnosis through interviews, the collection of personal items, and storytelling. These small steps can make a tremendous difference as the disease progresses.
I've seen firsthand the subtle shifts, the whispered concerns, and the eventual heart-wrenching diagnoses that mark the progression of Alzheimer's. It's a disease that doesn't just affect memory, it steals personalities, erodes independence, and leaves behind a profound sense of loss for everyone involved. As a caregiver working with residents diagnosed with Alzheimer's or dementia, our daily work is not just about administering medication or monitoring vital signs; it's about providing comfort, maintaining dignity, and offering a steady hand through the storm when days are hard. The loss they are experiencing is real.
My role extends to being a bridge between complex medical information and the lived realities of the residents and their families. I connect them with resources like the Alzheimer's Association, support groups, and respite care. It’s about empowering them with knowledge and reminding them that they are not alone on this journey.
Working with individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's has taught me the immense power of empathy, patience, and hope. It’s a disease that strips away so much, yet it can also reveal incredible reserves of love and resilience. As a nurse, I stand committed to raising awareness and promoting brain health this Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness month and every month. Every mind matters and every life touched by Alzheimer's deserves our unwavering support.
Jennifer S Forrest, RN BSN MSL, Vice-President of Quality & Education