GWC PRESIDENT CHARLOTTE STEWART WITH SPEAKER CYNTHIA PERTHIUS
CYNTHIA PERTHUIS, OWNER, SENIOR CARE AUTHORITY OF SWFL; CSA, CDP, CADDCT
STEPHANIE MENA
Cynthia Perthuis recently addressed the Gateway Women’s Club. She is a Senior Care Authority who spoke on Healthy Living for Brain and Body. Studies show that up to 45% of dementia cases, including those caused by Alzheimer’s disease, may be prevented or delayed by making changes to certain habits. Brain-healthy habits include staying physically active, making good dietary choices, remaining engaged and consistently practicing activities that exercise your brain.
Ms. Perthuis is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, senior care strategist, and owner of Senior Care Authority of Southwest Florida. She works with people all over the country and is frequently called on by the Alzheimer’s Association to speak about how healthy habits can promote healthy brains. Brain changes can start 20 years or more before symptoms of dementia are experienced. Dementia is not a normal part of aging.
New research shows that simple lifestyle changes can help delay cognitive decline and even Alzheimer’s symptoms-especially for those at genetic risk. Positive everyday actions can make a difference in brain health. The U.S. Pointer Study along with the Alzheimer’s Association is a landmark 2-year clinical trial. It is the first large-scale randomized controlled trial of its kind in the U. S. The Pointer Study showed a structured healthy lifestyle program combined with exercise, a healthy diet, cognitive engagement and health monitoring can protect cognitive function. Heart health and brain health are closely connected. The heart pumps blood to the brain. The blood provides oxygen and other nutrients to nourish the brain. What’s good for our hearts is good for our brains.
Ms. Perthuis challenged everyone to take charge of your brain health. These habits, and others, can lower the risk of developing cognitive decline and possibly dementia. Four things to do starting today: 1.) Eat vegetables 2.) Make a lot of friends 3.) Play outside – exercise. 4.) Continue learning – find something different than what you are doing today. Challenge your mind by trying strategy games, puzzles, learning a new language or exploring a new hobby. Seven to nine hours of quality sleep is important. Keep safety in mind. Organize your living space to minimize the risk of falling. Wear protective headgear when appropriate, be smoke-free, monitor and control your blood pressure.
To contact Cynthia Perthuis, CSA, CDP, CADDCT directly, log on to http://www.scanyfl.com. For additional information, you may also visit Alzheimer’s Association website: alz.org
