“Am I going to get Alzheimer’s?” is a question I hear often, especially from those who have served as a caregiver to a family member who has the disease. While researchers are working toward a cure, the focus of some has switched from treatment to prevention, or at least delaying the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Recently I have read new findings that suggest the most promising measures include adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle, which makes sense, as Alzheimer’s is a disease of the brain

Still, the number one risk factor for Alzheimer’s is growing older. At age 65, only one of nine people has Alzheimer’s; that number increases to one of three by age 85. Other risk factors include family history, genetics, head trauma and heart health.

Today, let’s focus on what has been labeled by some as “the six pillars for reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s.” Although we have no control over our age, family history or genetics, these pillars present us with the opportunity to maximize our chances of keeping our brain healthy and maintaining our cognitive abilities.

The first pillar is physical exercise. Recent guidelines advocate 150 minutes (does that sound better than two and one half hours?) each week, but any and all exercise is beneficial. Brisk walking is a favorite of many seniors and aquatic exercise is also popular. It is important to find something you enjoy and can make a part of your routine. Studies show that strength training encourages brain cell growth, and regular exercise stimulates mood – so get (and keep) moving!

Second on the list is food and nutrition. The American diet has become a feast of fat, sugar and salt – especially when you eat out. This year I have been teaching a nutrition class to some of the grandkids. A few of the statements from the book “Eat Well – Live Well” by registered dietician Pamela M. Smith that have spoken to me include her use of the term “white death” to describe sugar; suggesting that you “imagine white hamburger grease after it cools and hardens trying to circulate through your bloodstream” (as motivation to cut the fat in your diet); and her claim that “the typical restaurant meal will give the equivalent of twelve to fourteen pats of butter.” Ouch!

The third pillar is controlling your overall health through regular check-ups, following the recommendations made by your health care provider and taking prescribed medications. Some of the medical conditions that may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s are high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol.

Number four is probably my favorite – sleep and relaxation. Our bodies were designed to sleep about one-third of our life; good sleep is necessary for good health. Researchers have even discovered that sleep may reduce buildup in the brain of beta-amyloid plaque, an abnormal protein associated with Alzheimer’s. Our moods and immune systems also get a boost when we get enough sleep.

Next comes the importance of mental stimulation and the reminder to use it or lose it! Exercise your brain every day and you will promote new brain cell growth. Play games, learn new things, read, take the scenic route, use your senses to explore the world – and have fun doing it all.

The sixth pillar is one that seniors sometimes neglect – social interaction. Men, whether it’s getting together with your buddies for lunch (eat healthy, of course) or ladies participating in their circles and clubs, reach out to each other and enjoy stimulating conversation and activities. According to one study, people with the most social interaction experience the slowest rate of memory decline.

Instead of worrying about getting Alzheimer’s, get busy living a full, healthy life.