2. Prevention of Cognitive Decline Kimberly F. Taylor, Ph.D. Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Gerontology

3. Goals Discuss the risk of caregiving Discuss a plan to integrate these strategies… when, how Examine preventive strategies that include nutrition and physical activity Present the risk factors for cognitive decline Provide a general under-standing of the two most common forms of dementia Present the 10 Commandments of Healthy Brain Aging

4. Two Most Common Forms of Dementia TWO MOST COMMON FORMS OF DEMENTIA Alzheimer’s Disease Vascular Dementia Collectively account for 90% of all dementia

5. Overview of Alzheimer’s Disease DEMENTIA: A brain disorder that seriously affects a person’s ability to carry out daily activities (self care). DEMENTIA The most common form of dementia among older adults is Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) which accounts for 60-70% of all dementia. Initial involvement is in part of the brain that controls thought, memory, and language. ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE Thought to be caused by amyloid protein deposits in the brain that leads to plaque and tangle formations that destroy brain tissue. POSSIBLE CAUSE

28. The 10 Commandments of Healthy Brain Aging* *Kimberly Taylor, 2007

29. Thou shalt maintain energy balance (calories in = calories out). 1 Thou shalt eat a minimum combination of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. 2 Thou shalt consume omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids regularly (fatty fishes and walnuts). 3 Thou shalt consume 20-30 grams of fiber per day. 4 Thou shalt abstain from fast foods and processed foods. 5 Thou shalt enjoy food in its natural state. 6 Food sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber are best. 7 Thou shalt move more (engage in physical activity). 8 Thou shalt have variety in life (food choices, cognitive activities, social and physical activities). 9 Thou shalt plan, prepare and partake of meals that are nurturing to the cells as well as the soul. 10