Some of the key risk factors for developing this disease are the following:

1. Age: Most Alzheimer’s patient’s are over the age of 65. The risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease increases with age.
2. Family History: Research shows that those who have a close relative with this disease are more likely to develop the disease.
3. Genetics: Scientists have identified an Alzheimer’s risk gene, which is protein variant…Gene 19.
4. Vascular Health: Good heart health, including lowering cholesterol, is linked to lower disease rates.
5. Healthy aging: keeping the brain active, being physically fit and maintaining social connections may offer some protection.
6. Head injuries: There appears to be a link between serious head injuries and developing Alzheimer’s disease…so wear a helmet when biking or climbing.

Since it is fall, I want to talk about fall prevention. Wet and inclement weather is upon us and this can be detrimental to one’s well-being.

We must be aware of our surroundings and we must always take precautions to make sure we are balanced and prepared if we do slip and lose our balance. Firstly, a good pair of shoes is warranted in bad, wet weather; non-skid soles or slip resistant to be exact.

When walking, try to center yourself with your Chi…that is a point mid-way between your breast bone and your navel. Breathe slowly and evenly when you walk and concentrate on staying focused to your surroundings and your gait.

If you have a balance problem due to your inner ear or have had knee, hip, back or stroke problems then do not be ashamed or embarrassed to use a cane or walker when you walk. If you should slip you can help yourself by using your assisted device to help you and keep you from falling.

Many elders feel that using an assisted walking device is a sign of weakness or being old. On the contrary, it is a sign of maturity and wisdom that you know when you need a helping hand and most of the time you will look distinguished using such a device.

My own mother got a plexi-glass cane that looks like crystal. Everyone has commented on how beautiful it is.  “Where did you get it” rings out from those passers-by. But she won’t tell! I tried to get her to use a cane a long time ago because she was falling and now she does not leave home without it!!

So if you have balance problems, try a cane, you’ll like it!!!

Paying for nursing home care can be expensive in our country. Few families can afford to pay for nursing home care for an extended time. It is a good idea to plan for this sort of thing in advance. The most desired facility may be out of the question because of cost, or the facility may be full and have a long waiting list. Some of you may already have experienced this fact. Nursing home care is costly, but it is not as expensive as a night in a good hotel, plus the “guest” is receiving food and nursing services.

Government health insurance programs can help pay for nursing home care; however, they have very specific requirements. Medicare only covers a very small part of nursing home care. It limits the amount of time and circumstances under which it pays for nursing home care. It pays only for care that it defines as “skilled” nursing care which is comparable to care received in a hospital. Federal guidelines for Medicare basically limit coverage to people who are recovering from an acute condition.

If you can afford it, long-term health insurance is a good bet. It will help you cover the costs of nursing care in a home, hospital, assisted-living and the like. There are many laws regulating the keeping of assets with regard to nursing home care and if you are interested in learning about these, which could save you a “bundle,” in the long-run, then contact me or other experts who can advise you on how to save your assets from the government and still be able to get the care you need.