Reduce Stress

Scientists are beginning to explore the effect of stress on memory and thinking.  Recent studies have concluded:

• a higher level of chronic psychological distress is associated with increased incidence of mild cognitive impairment. 

• distress proneness is associated with increased risk of dementia.  This may be due to something other than Alzheimer’s disease.

• long periods of stress in older people who have the APOE4 genetic variation associated with Alzheimer’s may lead to memory decline. 

Things you can do to reduce stress include:

• Meditation or deep breathing
• Exercise
• Try yoga
• Plan at least one pleasant activity every day
• Get enough sleep
• Get a massage
• Avoid multitasking or trying to do too much
• Understand the sources of your stress and eliminate them if you can
• Avoid stressful situations when possible
• Ask a therapist or counselor to help you find ways to reduce stress.

Learn more:

Tangled Neuron Posts:

Stress, Depression and Alzheimer’s
    Part 1
    Part 2

Does Depression Increase Your Risk of Memory Loss?Psychosocial Risk Factors in African-Americans

Other Resources:

American Academy of Family Physicians information on reducing stress