Us coffee lovers are always happy to hear about the ways our favorite little bean helps us stay healthier. You may have already heard that studies show coffee can help reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. A Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging and Dementia (CAIDE) study done by the Medical School at University of Eastern Finland found that drinking 3-5 cups per day of coffee during middle age was associated with a 65 percent decreased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease later in life.
Great news for coffee drinkers, but what about aging parents and loved ones who might not have routinely brewed a morning cup? Do you even know what to watch out for when it comes to monitoring their cognitive function and brain health? Here are some of the not-so-obvious signs to watch.
Vision problems: Misjudging distance, not seeing color contrast, and having problems reading can all be early signs of Alzheimer’s. Have traffic lights become hard for your elder to navigate? That could be a sign they need help.
Poor decision making: Does your auntie actually believe that Nigerian Prince has a million dollars waiting for her if she just hands over all her banking information? It could be time to take her to the doctor.
Decrease in self-care and grooming rituals: If Pops always prided himself on coiffed hair and a pressed suit but is suddenly walking around in a bathrobe until noon, there could be a problem.
Withdrawal from a favorite activity or hobby: If your loved one stops being interested in the things they used to love, schedule an exam. Waning enthusiasm for their favorite activities is another warning sign.
Mood swings: Who can blame someone for getting confused, scared or depressed when their mind begins to slip? Keep an eye out for changes in mood.
It’s estimated that one in ten people over 65 have Alzheimer’s disease. Like any disease, early diagnosis and treatment help. It’s natural that as we get older, our family roles shift. The people that took care of you might need some help taking care of themselves. Knowing what to look out for is crucial.