Alzheimer’s Society’s local community organizer to speak at Valleyview today

By Jeremy Appel on September 21, 2017.

jappel@medicinehatnews.com @MHNJeremyAppel

There are certain ways to reduce one’s risk of developing dementia later in life, said Alariss Schmid, who’s speaking at the Valleyview Retirement Residence today for World Alzheimer’s Day.

The community organizer for the Medicine Hat wing of the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta and the North West Territories, has delivered 10 talks recently about dementia in anticipation of today.

“Know your numbers,” she said. “Although most dementias are not hereditary, we know that certain conditions can raise your risk of dementia.”

Schmid cited diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol as conditions typically associated with a higher risk of dementia.

Another method of harm reduction is to lead a healthy lifestyle, particularly by exercising and eating well, she said.

James Menchino, a Toronto-based naturopath and author, emphasized healthy living as the primary means to lower the chances of getting Alzheimer’s.

“Alzheimer’s is primarily a disease of how we let our brains age,” said Menchino. “People who have certain dietary and lifestyle factors in common tend to avoid the disease, whereas people who compile one risk factor after the next in the way they live their lives, have a much greater risk as they age.”

He said genetic predisposition toward certain diseases is often overwrought.

“For 95 per cent of inherited genes that are linked to a disease, it just means that you have the loaded gun, but your lifestyle decides whether you pull the trigger,” Menchino said.

People can also reduce their risk of dementia by keeping their brains stimulated, which can be done by learning a musical instrument or new language, added Schmid.

These strategies can also be practised by those who suffer from dementia, as a means of mitigating their symptoms, she said.

“Some of our clients that have a diagnosis of dementia, when they follow a healthy lifestyle, they find that they have more good days then bad days,” said Schmid. “They’re able to live well with dementia.”

Those who are interested in learning more or getting involved can contact Medicine Hat’s ASANT at 403-528-2700.