June is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

From the Board of Health
According to the CDC, “Alzheimer’s disease, a type of dementia, is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that affects an estimated 5.7 million Americans. It is the sixth leading cause of death among all adults and the fifth leading cause for those aged 65 or older.”

“The causes of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are not completely understood, but researchers believe they include a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. In more than 90% of people with Alzheimer’s, symptoms do not appear until after age 60. The incidence of the disease increases with age and doubles every 5 years beyond age 65.” Interestingly, some recent studies have shown that consistent exercise over a long period of time may help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease. Additional information is available at Alzheimer's Association website at www.alz.org.