If your overall health is well managed, your brain health will benefit. People with dementia may have other chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Make sure to visit your family doctor or nurse practitioner and specialists regularly for check-ups. Take your medications correctly and follow their lifestyle advice. A healthy lifestyle will help with all chronic diseases.
People with dementia are at higher risk of experiencing other health conditions such as delirium, incontinence, visual problems, dental problems, and frailty. Schedule regular check-ups with your optometrist and dentist. Be on the lookout for any changes in your health or how you feel, and see your doctor when you notice changes.
Exercise
- Start exercising or increase the amount of exercise you do. Try doing both aerobic exercise and strength training.
Eat healthily
- Start improving your diet by eating more fresh food, reducing processed foods, and drinking more water.
Rest well
- Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep a night by cutting down on daytime naps and establishing a nighttime routine. Talk to your doctor if you have trouble sleeping.
