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Medical Author:

Norberto Alvarez, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Taking care of yourself physically can greatly improve the quality of your life.

• Eat healthy foods.
  
  
• Exercise every day, even if the exercise is just a short walk.
  
  
• Get regular health check-ups with your health care practitioner.
  
  
• Take your medication as directed by your health care practitioner.
  
  
• Maintain care of chronic diseases you may have, such as high blood pressure.
  
  
• Rest when you are tired.
  
  
• Drink alcohol in moderation (1-2 drinks per day or less).
  
  
• Don't smoke.

Emotional health is important as well. When diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, you may feel a range of emotions, including:

• denial about having Alzheimer's disease,
  
  
• frustration,
  
  
• anger, depression,
  
  
• loneliness, and
  
  
• fear.

These feelings are normal. Learn to deal with these emotions in a healthy manner so you are not overwhelmed by them.

• Talk with your physician about what you are feeling. He or she will be able to offer suggestions that may help.
  
  
• See a counselor or clergy member
  
  
• Join a support group.
  
  
• Write about how you feel in a journal.
  
  
• Tell your family and friends about the feelings you're experiencing.
  
  
• Continue to participate in activities you enjoy for as long as you are able.
  
  
• Do difficult tasks when you feel up to them. Don't rush yourself, and don't let others rush you.
  
  
• Take breaks from activities or tasks if you need to to avoid frustration and fatigue.

Research suggests that keeping yourself mentally active is vital and may slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. It may also help keep your brain cells and the connections between them strong, which may add further protection against mental decline.

• Try crossword puzzles, games, and other activities that make you think.
  
  
• Read and keep up on current events.
  
  
• Write.
  
  
• Attend community classes.
  
  
• Watch educational programs and videos.
  
  
• Socialize in settings that are comfortable to you.

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