IN Peters Township December 2018/January 2019 | Page 57

HEALTH & WELLNESS S P E C I A L S E C T I O N judgment, and visual perception. At least two of the aforementioned symptoms must be severely impaired to indicate signs of dementia. Usually the signs and symptoms are progressive and get worse over time. If caught early by a health care professional, some symptoms can be treated. One of the most common types of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s accounts for 60 to 80 percent of all dementia cases. It causes severe problems with daily tasks that involve memory, thinking and behavior. It is not a normal part of aging, but the greatest known risk factor is increasing age since the disease is progressive. While it is most common in people over the age of 65, younger-onset Alzheimer’s is found in five percent of people as young as their 40s. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, evidence shows that incorporating the following habits will keep you fit both physically and mentally: • Heart Health – Obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes—all risk factors for cardiovascular disease—negatively impact your cognitive health. Cardiovascular activity increases blood flow to the brain and body, reducing the risk of cognitive decline. • Helmet Up! – Brain injury is one of the leading causes of dementia and cognitive decline. Play it smart and always wear a helmet to protect from brain injury. • Sleep Tight – Have you ever stayed up late, only to find you’re forgetful and mentally lethargic the next day? Not getting enough sleep can result in lower brain function, affecting memory and thinking. • Be a Social Butterfly – Staying active with friends and loved ones may support brain health as well. A recent study from the Women’s Healthy Aging Project found that babysitting grandchildren could lower the risk of Alzheimer’s. • Challenge Yourself – Enjoy crossword puzzles or painting? Keep your brain challenged by doing something new each day, whether it is learning a new language, doing a jigsaw puzzle or reading a book! Eye and Ear Health Hearing and vision are two essential parts of our everyday lives. Yet there are many individuals who let ear and eye problems go unattended. Ear and eye health is equally as important as taking care of the rest of the body and should THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE Lori Mohler, LMT, MMP PA License #MSG01195 Customized, professional massage service IN Community Ad Special 60 minutes 90 minutes $90 $65 $130 $92 Medical massage as low as $25 a session During business hours Book Online call 724-206-8283 or anytime! to schedule lorimohlerlmt.com 1725 Washington Road, Suite 408 Pittsburgh, PA 15241 [email protected] Business Hours Monday 8am-5pm; Tues-Sat 8am-8pm Sunday Closed Continued on page 57 > PETERS TOWNSHIP ❘ DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019 55