Wyoming Alzheimer’s Group: Stay Active, Socialize

An official with the Alzheimer's Association of Wyoming says being active on facebook could help prevent Alzheimer's disease.

Janet Lewis says the latest research shows being socially active seems to offer some protection against dementia, although researchers don't know why.

She says that could include such things as being active in a church, going out to dinner with friends, or even being active on social media. Lewis says any interaction with others, even if they aren't in the same place seems to help.

Lewis says it's also important to keep your brain active by learning new skills and taking on challenging tasks that require a lot of thought. That could include anything from playing chess to learning a musical instrument to picking up new skills at work.

Staying physically active is also important, and the general health guidelines of getting plenty of exercise and eating well are doubly important when it comes to preventing Alzheimer's.

Researcher's still don't know what causes Alzheimer's, and Lewis says that while there are some medications available that can treat some of the symptoms, there is no cure.

She says about 9,000 Wyoming residents are afflicted with Alzheimer's disease. But when the family members who are often thrust into the role of unpaid caregiver are factored in, the number of people actually affected in the state is much higher.