The Taiwan Alzheimer's Disease Association (TADA) is encouraging families with elderly members to participate in a series of free workshops and health checks taking place on Sept. 15 and Sept. 16 to mark World Alzheimer's Day.
Those who want more information can call 0800-474-580 or visit online at www.tada2002.org.tw
The association's president, Lee Ming-been (李明濱), told a press conference yesterday that given the steady rise in the number of elderly people suffering from Alzheimer's disease in this country, it is imperative to communicate to the public what they can do to reduce the risk of developing the disease.
"There are more than 14,000 people living with Alzheimer's in this country," Lee said. "The figure is expected to increase to more than 15,000 next year."
The vast majority of those suffering from Alzheimer's are over 65. According to TADA figures, more than 5 percent of seniors over 65 are stricken with Alzheimer's.
There is no cure for Alzheimer's, but Chiu Ming-zhang (邱銘章), a neurologist at National Taiwan University Hospital said at yesterday's press conference that it is possible for the elderly to develop healthy habits and avoid risky behavior that might reduce the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's.
Current research suggests that eating a "Mediterranean diet" with plenty of fruits, vegetables, olive oil and other polyunsaturated oils as well as fish containing Omega-3 fatty acids ia helpful in staving off Alzheimer's, Chiu said.
It's also possible that behavioral modification such as increased exercise and challenging mental activities could help.
Risk factors to avoid include high blood pressure and blood sugar levels and excessive weight levels, Chiu said.
Because there is still much to learn about Alzheimer's, Chiu said, people cannot expect all recommendations to remain valid.
"New research in this area is coming out continuously," Chiu said. "It's important to keep up to date because ideas are getting debunked all the time."
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