Progressive mental deterioration with loss of memory and cognitive functions is a common health concern for the elderly. Loss of mental function is not only a frightening prospect for older people, but also for their concerned family members, who often feel completely helpless as they witness gradual personality changes and a decline in quality of life. In this section, I want to talk about the positive steps and changes we can make in our lives to promote good health and good brain function, focusing especially on diet and nutrition. Family members can also encourage and support older people in the challenging task of changing the way they eat.


Some brain deterioration is due to tumors and other organic brain changes, but the majority of progressive mental deterioration, including alzheimer’s disease, is categorized as dementia. In the 1980s, it was estimated that approximately 2.8 million americans had mild to moderate dementia, and 1.3 million had severe dementia. In the population over 65, the incidence of severe dementia is estimated to be 5% and that of mild to moderate dementia about 10%. Studies show that 50-60% of all cases of dementia are the result of alzheimer’s disease, which means that about one in twelve people over age 65 have alzheimer’s. The incidence of alzheimer’s disease has increased so much that it is being referred to as a 20th century disease.


What causes the brain to degenerate as we age? Scientists cite three primary factors: genetic inheritance; nutrition; environmental toxins such as aluminum, lead, and pesticides that target the nervous system. These factors manifest themselves in the digestive system as well as the brain. Increased susceptibility to genetic factors and decreased ability to properly absorb nutrients tend to be part of the aging process. If a person shows early signs of alzheimer’s at a relatively young age, it would be a good idea to do a hair analysis to see if there are high levels of toxins in the body tissues.


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