INFOGRAPHIC: Little Known Facts About Alzheimer's

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures dip lower, I find it’s time to pull my loved ones closer and slip into my coziest cold-weather clothing. But, that’s not all my November includes. November is also a time to learn and grow in awareness, especially because November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. While there’s no known cure for Alzheimer’s, there are certain steps that can be takin in order to reduce the risk of developing the disease.

Facts About Alzheimer’s

In honor of November being Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, we’re taking a time to share some facts about Alzheimer’s that don’t always make it into the conversation. Alzheimer's is a disease currently affecting five million Americans, some of which are living right here in Minneapolis Alzheimer’s care communities.

To support ongoing awareness and conversations within and beyond our Minneapolis Alzheimer’s care communities, we’ve put together a few little known facts about Alzheimer’s.

 *Click infographic to view in new window*

Alzheimer’s is Common and Costly

Five million Americans have Alzheimer’s, and here in Minnesota, we’re estimated to have 91,000 people living with Alzheimer’s. On a national scale, the cost of treating the disease reached 236 billion dollars in 2016.

Risk of Alzheimer’s can be Reduced

While Alzheimer’s is not preventable, the risk can be reduced. Some of the factors contributing to vascular dementia include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Poor diet
• Sedentary lifestyle

Women and Men Experience Alzheimer’s Differently

Women face a 50 percent greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s than men. The disease also progresses more quickly in females than it does in males.

Heart Disease and Genetics Play a Part

Individuals with heart disease are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s. A family history of Alzheimer’s also increases risk.

Education Level can Lower Risk

As someone’s education level increases, their chances of developing the disease decreases. Keeping your brain active through reading, listening to music, and socializing with others.

Individuals with Alzheimer’s Need Support

Supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s and sustaining their quality of life can be done through proper medication, appropriate clinical trials, and alternative treatments.

The Search for a Cure Continues

Although there’s currently no cure or preventative vaccine for Alzheimer’s, scientists and organizations are still working toward a future without Alzheimer’s.

Minneapolis Alzheimer’s Care Communities

Beyond educating and spreading awareness, Walker Methodist is dedicated to providing top-of-the-line Alzheimer’s care within our communities. With specially trained staff and dedicated activities and spaces for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, we’re here to support you and your loved ones in learning about this disease, as well as caring for those who face it.

Our team of front line care staff bears daily witness to the profound effects of this disease. We are proud to participate as a bronze sponsor in the Walk to End Alzheimer's. This oportunity to make a positive impact and share awareness is one of the small ways we can advance the research for Alzheimer's.