Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

November is Alzheimer's Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about this progressive brain disorder that slowly impairs memory, thinking skills, and daily functioning. As the most common cause of dementia among older adults, Alzheimer’s is a serious condition with no cure and is not a part of healthy aging. While researchers are still uncovering its root causes, it’s believed that the disease stems from the accumulation of misfolded proteins between nerve cells, leading to brain damage that may begin a decade before symptoms appear.

Alzheimer's in Wyoming

According to the Alzheimer's Impact Movement, Wyoming is home to 10,300 individuals living with Alzheimer’s and 16,000 unpaid caregivers. By 2025, the number of residents of Wyoming living with Alzheimer's is estimated to increase by 30%. Alzheimer's can have a significant impact on families and caregivers. In Wyoming, family caregivers provide an estimated 21 million hours of unpaid care to people with Alzheimer's each year. This unpaid care has an estimated value of $385 million.

New Long-Term Care Facility

Sublette County Health is proud to announce the development of a new long-term care facility featuring a secured memory care unit with 10 beds. This facility will expand the existing capacity at the Sublette Center, providing hospital-based care that includes 24/7 medical services, such as lab work and emergency care—crucial for those with dementia who may require frequent medical attention. Additionally, the new facility will offer more private rooms, ensuring residents have enhanced privacy and dignity.

10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain

Positive, everyday actions can make a difference in brain health, even lowering the risk of cognitive decline and possibly Alzheimer's and dementia

Here are ten habits from The Alzheimer’s Association that you can adopt to maintain a healthy brain:

1. Challenge Your Mind
   Be curious and engage in new activities. Learning a new skill or trying something artistic can provide both short- and long-term benefits for your brain.

2. Stay in School
   Education is linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline. Encourage youth to pursue higher education and consider continuing your own learning through classes at local libraries, colleges, or online.

3. Get Moving
   Regular exercise is vital for brain health. Engage in activities that elevate your heart rate and increase blood flow, such as walking, dancing, or gardening.

4. Protect Your Head
   Prevent head injuries by wearing helmets during biking or other sports, using seatbelts, and taking precautions against falls, especially for older adults.

5. Be Smoke-Free
   Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk of cognitive decline. It's never too late to stop.

6. Control Your Blood Pressure
   High blood pressure can impact brain health. Work with your healthcare provider to manage it through medications and healthy lifestyle changes.

7. Manage Diabetes
   Type 2 diabetes can be controlled or prevented through healthier eating, increased physical activity, and medication if necessary.

8. Eat Right
   A balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and less processed foods can help lower your risk of cognitive decline. Choose healthy meals and snacks that you enjoy.

9. Maintain a Healthy Weight
   Consult with your healthcare provider to determine a healthy weight for you. Eating well, exercising, and sleeping adequately can help you maintain it.

10. Sleep Well
    Quality sleep is crucial for brain health. Create a comfortable sleep environment, minimize disruptions, and avoid screens before bed. If you experience sleep issues, consult a healthcare provider.

Taking charge of your brain health is crucial, and it's never too early or too late to start. Alzheimer’s may be a devastating disease, but with awareness and support, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected and their families.