Most people who develop Alzheimer’s disease experience symptoms later in life. In fact, the most common form of this disorder affects people who are over the age of 65. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s include memory lapses, decreased attention span, agitation, and mood swings. As the condition advances, physical effects, such as loss of bladder control and seizures, can also occur.
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, but certain medications can improve symptoms. Medications can also slow down the progression of the disease. Alzheimer’s medications include:
While these medications are all used to manage the effects of Alzheimer’s, they work in different ways. For example, antiamyloids prevent excessive levels of amyloids from accumulating in the brain, while cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine affect chemical messengers necessary to cognitive function. As for brexpiprazole, this medication can help manage the agitation that often accompanies the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s.
While prevention of Alzheimer’s disease is not yet possible, it is believed that making the following healthy lifestyle choices can significantly lower your risk:
Diet is another important factor when it comes to lowering Alzheimer’s risk. For instance, a heart healthy Mediterranean diet consisting of fish, fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and olive oil has shown promise for supporting long-term cognitive function.