Can we learn something about Alzheimer’s from an elephant? Learn more in this article.The old saying is true: elephants actually do have phenomenal memories, even in their later years. For example, they can remember and go back to highly specific locations many years after visiting them, irrespective of age. What exactly can we glean from elephants which could result in improving our own cognitive functioning as we age?
Surprisingly, older elephants’ brains show no accumulation of the amyloid plaques some experts are linking to Alzheimer’s and dementia. Even though other experts tout the requirement for ample sleep to permit the brain the chance to clear away plaques, elephants are stamping over that idea, sleeping as few as two hours everyday.
But one variable rises above the rest which simply may be the key: socialization. Research increasingly points out the connection between isolation and cognitive decline, and the benefit of retaining reliable social connections. Elephants remain socially involved with close family herds for a lifetime, whereas our human busyness oftentimes hinders the type of important, sustained relationships we so desperately need.
Investing quality time together with your senior loved ones is a lot easier with just a little assistance from the professional caregivers at Home Sweet Home In-Home Care. Our in-home care services include housework, shopping, cooking, personal care needs, and much more, freeing up valuable time for older adults and their loved ones.
We’re also skilled in supporting seniors to become active and involved with the world around them, and can provide transportation and accompaniment to senior centers, exercise programs, and stimulating excursions, along with enhancing socialization right in their own home with discussions, games, and interesting activities.
And as we await a cure or at the least an effective treatment option for Alzheimer’s disease, understand that the care team at Home Sweet Home In-Home Care is fully trained and knowledgeable in specialized dementia care. Because of this, our clients are equipped to live life to their highest possible potential, and family caregivers are given the support they want in managing a number of the more difficult components of the disease, for instance sundowning, aggression, wandering, and more.
Contact us online or call us at 269-849-9252 to learn more about our Alzheimer’s and dementia care, as well as other St. Joseph, MI senior care services! We’re available for as much or as little care as needed, from a few hours to allow family members to take an all-important break from care, up to full-time, around-the-clock care, and anything in between. For a full list of the communities we serve in Michigan, please visit our Locations page.