As people age, various illnesses often begin to affect both their body and mind, especially those who are retired or over 60. This is when people become more fragile, with underlying health conditions that make them more prone to sickness. To prevent elderly individuals from developing severe dementia, today,
I am introducing the '8 Ds' technique to help those close to elderly people take care of them, or for the elderly themselves to follow to reduce the chances of developing this condition. While it may not completely prevent it, it can help improve brain function and slow down cognitive decline.
Dementia is a common condition among the elderly. If an elderly person suffers from dementia, it will certainly affect their daily life, such as reduced cognitive abilities, forgetfulness, trouble remembering things, frequent memory lapses, and changes in mood and behavior.
Diet plays a very important role. The elderly should have a balanced diet, such as 7-9 tablespoons of carbohydrates daily, 4 tablespoons of vegetables, 1-3 servings of fruits, 6-8 tablespoons of meat, and 1-2 glasses of milk. They should avoid foods that are too sweet, fatty, or salty.
Good oral health is also essential. The elderly should brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, for 2 minutes each time, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a rounded tip. It's important to brush along the gum line and all surfaces of the teeth.
Vision problems, such as presbyopia (difficulty seeing close objects), become more common. The elderly should regularly visit an ophthalmologist to get proper advice on maintaining eye health, which can also help slow down vision decline.
Regular physical activity is crucial for seniors, as it helps slow down the degeneration of bones and muscles. Walking at least 5,000 steps a day can help prevent falls and strengthen muscles, and walking 6,000 steps a day can protect against heart and vascular diseases. Walking 7,000-10,000 steps per day can prevent non-communicable diseases and improve physical fitness, helping the elderly stay mobile and prevent falls.
The living environment significantly impacts daily life. The home should be arranged in a way that suits the elderly, such as keeping things tidy, ensuring no obstacles in walking paths, using non-slip bathroom floors, and installing handrails to prevent falls.
A positive mood greatly influences overall health. Family members and close individuals should spend time engaging in activities with the elderly, such as exercising, visiting temples, dining out, or participating in senior citizen clubs. This helps prevent loneliness and isolation.
Since the brain is the organ that integrates all factors, maintaining a good diet, mental health, and a supportive environment can directly contribute to better brain function.
Adequate sleep is crucial. The elderly should aim to sleep for 7-8 hours per night to allow the body to repair itself. Proper sleep can also help prevent illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and depression, all of which are important for overall health.
Some elderly individuals may also face complications from other health conditions. Therefore, maintaining overall physical health can help reduce the risk of developing various diseases. Family members need to take good care of their elderly relatives to ensure that they have both physical and mental well-being, allowing them to live a long and healthy life with us.
