Describe neurochemical and brain changes central to dementia. Discuss dietary factors that may be related to dementia. With these things in mind, recommend strategies for preventing dementia.

 Student Response: Emily H

 

Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life according to Kearney & Trull (2018). These changes are caused by abnormal brain changes. The brain is made up of three main parts, the cerebrum, the cerebellum and the brain stem and inflammation play a large role in the brain and dementia because in individuals with dementia with also have an excessive amount of inflammation in their brain which causes cells in the brain to die. According to Dementia Care Central (2021), an individual with dementia, neurons carrying signals to and from the brain are destroyed which means signals transmitted between brain cells carried by neurotransmitters are interrupted, and connections between nerve cells of the brain become broken.

Foods associated with or diets high with sugar, alcohol, processed meats, high starches and or high in saturated fats have been knowns to increase risks of cognitive decline.

It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle such as not using substances, eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise and managing any other health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes as well as maintaining a lifestyle with a healthy mental health. In addition, staying educated and involved is also important.

 

Kearney, C., & Trull, T. (2018). Abnormal psychology and life: A dimensional approach (3rd ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage Learning. https://www.gcumedia.com/digital-resources/cengage/2018/abnormal-psychology-and-life_a-dimensional-approach_3e.php

How Structural & Chemical Changes in a Brain with Alzheimer’s Affects Level of Functioning. Dementia Care Central. (2021, June 3). https://www.dementiacarecentral.com/caregiverinfo/brain-changes/.