Health Plan of San Joaquin | Focus Your Health | Summer 2019

Focus Your Health 3 It’s hard when a loved one has Alzheimer’s disease. But there are some ways to make life bet- ter for your loved one—and for yourself too. For instance: Talk about it. People with Alzheimer’s and their families feel a range of emotions—from fear to denial. Talking about these feelings may be good for everyone. Help your loved one stay active and involved. Help your loved one keep up hobbies or other favorite activities for as long as possible. Exercise may also be good for your loved ACROSS 2. Exercise isn’t just for your body. To help keep your brain active, read, play games, do _______ (like crosswords!) and try new hobbies. 3. Staying social can help keep your brain sharp. Make time for _______ and family—it’s good for you! 4. A _______ is a type of doctor who specializes in treating the brain and spine. 7. Move your body to protect your brain. Regular _______ has been shown to increase brain function and improve mental health. 9. Though it’s the most common, _______ disease isn’t the only type of dementia. DOWN 1. Different types of dementia call for different _______, so it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis. 5. Getting enough _______ every night can help keep your brain healthy. 6. Eat a diet with plenty of _______ and veggies, whole grains, fish, and nuts. 8. Loss of _______ doesn’t always signal dementia. It can have other causes too. MIND GAMES 1 2 3 6 7 8 9 5 4 Give this brain health puzzle a try. You’ll have fun testing your know- how—and you may pick up a few tips too! Across: 2. Puzzles 3. Friends 4. Neurologist 7. Exercise 9. Alzhei mer’s Down: 1. Treatments 5. Sleep 6. Fruits 8. Memory Answers: HealthReach 1061 one. Choose activities you both can do. Help your loved one stay independent. He or she may need help with some daily tasks. But don’t just assume this. Right now, the best way to know is to ask. For example, if he or she has trouble remembering to pay bills, you might offer to help fill out the checks. Seek support. Your loved one may want to join a support group for people with Alzheimer’s. You may want to join a support group too. It could help both of you to talk to those who have been there. Talk to your family. Let them knowwhat is happening— and how they can help. You may want to teach them what you have learned about Alzheimer’s. Take care of you. You can’t help your loved one unless you help yourself. Remember to: ● ● Eat healthy foods, exercise and get enough sleep. ● ● Do something that makes you happy. ● ● Ask for help from family members. Alzheimer’s in the family? Tips to help everyone cope