There is no definitive way to prevent dementia. Although, there are precautions that can be taken for prevention. It has been shown that certain vitamins and supplements can help in slowing down dementia.
Large numbers of baby boomers are beginning to reach old age, making dementia at its highest rate ever. People are living longer than ever these days, so it’s important to figure out how to treat and cure dementia.
What is the Cause of Dementia?
During the aging process brain cells start to function abnormally and even become damaged. Memory loss, impaired speech, and mental confusion are common symptoms of brain cell damage. Along with daily activities becoming difficult to manage on their own, such as dressing, bathing, and eating.
Due to the lack of independence and loss of cognitive function, this disease causes a lot of pain within families. The disease begins to take over personalities and make the loved one you once knew a stranger. It can be difficult to find appropriate care for those suffering with dementia. These are examples of why preventative care is so important, such as taking supplements and vitamins.
Vitamins and Minerals
*Always consult with your physician before taking any supplements*
Below are a list of vitamins and minerals that can possibly help slow down dementia:
Vitamin B1
It has been shown that taking 50 mg of vitamin B1 daily can help treat dementia. Alzheimer’s disease happens when the nerve transmissions in the brain start to deteriorate. Vitamin B1 gives support to those neurons, slowing down the progression of deterioration. Trials held at the University of Michigan showed beneficial effects in mental function of those with Alzheimer’s.
Vitamin E
Antioxidants, such as Vitamin E, can help dementia patients in two ways. It can slow down the progression of dementia and help protect against developing dementia. It has been shown that older adults with higher levels of Vitamin E in their blood have better brain function. It’s recommended to take 400 to 800 IU per day of vitamin. Another good antioxidant to consider is Coenzyme Q10, which improves the delivery of oxygen to the brain.
Phosphatidylserine
This vitamin is naturally occurring in the brain and helps with increasing levels of chemicals that allow the brain to process and retain memories. There are two supplement types available, including plant sources and bovine sources. The most effective form is the bovine source from an animal. It’s recommended to take 100 mg 3 times daily.
Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid
It’s common that those who have dementia are deficient in Vitamin B12 and folic acid. Taking these two supplements have been found to lower levels of amino acids in the blood that are linked to dementia. It’s recommended to take 100 mcg to 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12 and to take 400 mcg to 1,000 mcg of folic acid every day.
Zinc
Zinc is a crucial mineral for memory and cognitive function that we often forget about. The majority of elderly people are deficient in zinc, supplementing can help improve their brain function. It’s recommended to take 30 mg to 40 mg of zinc per day.
Fairmont Grand Senior Living Community
Fairmont Grand is a resident centered senior living and memory care facility in Rapid City, SD. Our goal is to create an environment where resident well-being is at the heart of everything we do.
Our wide range of services are designed to meet you or your loved one’s daily needs. We offer restaurant style dining options, a variety of physical activities, and give residents the opportunity to live as independently as possible.
If you or a loved one near Rapid City, South Dakota are considering assisted living or memory care, contact Fairmont Grand to learn more about individualized living options or tour our community.
