“What are the best supplements for someone just diagnosed with Alzheimer’s?”
Great question.
As I began to research, several cautionary red flags rose in me. There are all kinds of products online making all kinds of claims. I don’t have medical training, so shouldn’t be giving medical advice. Many supplements can interfere with prescribed drugs, making them less effective.
Caution, caution caution.
I went to my go-to site for medical advice–The Mayo Clinic. What I discovered is this: The best supplement for optimum health and to address cognitive decline is…none.
That’s the bad news. The good news is, there are steps you can take to be your best physical, mental and emotional self in 2026. (Some of these are drums I have been beating for a long time. But I have a few new tunes.)
Step One: Exercise
Moderate aerobic exercise, which is defined as 150 minutes a week of walking. That’s about 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Of course, other forms, such as swimming, golf, bike 
riding are also good. My friend has discovered line dancing since she retired, and not only gets great exercise, but has made friends as well. The key is consistency. A tracking device which counts your steps such as a Fitbit or Apple Watch, helps you watch your progress and challenge yourself.
If the weather doesn’t co-operate, try using a stationary bike, a treadmill, or walk in the mall. It’s easy to let things slide and find excuses, but regular exercise not only improves heart health, but also mood as you get out and interact with others.
A free recipe pamphlet called: Simple Recipes for Busy Caregivers
is available to anyone who signs up for the once-a-month newsletter
called The 5 Tips Newsletter. Click this link and sign up today!
https://mailchi.mp/0d3010c47469/sign-up-for-the-5-tips-newsletter
Step Two: Mental Stimulation
As a retired introvert, withdrawing is my comfort zone. I hate shopping malls or any crowded places. “It’s too peopley” is my constant complaint. I do love people, but a few at a time, and let’s talk about significant things, as I’m terrible at small talk. I know I need community, and I work at making the connections to keep my brain active and maintain my emotional health.
Mental activities are vitally important. Read, follow current events (although I admit, that could be hard on your mental health!) make things, play games and challenge yourself to learn new things. The Duolingo app can help you learn a new language. Many YouTube videos will walk you through painting a picture, making a bookcase or fixing things in your house. The possibilities are endless.
As we age, the ability to make changes in our health become more difficult. Weight doesn’t fall off like it used to, new habits are harder to form and the results are slower to show. But we must make the effort. If we don’t, the slide into poor health (which includes a diminished quality of life) is inevitable and at warp speed. Don’t let that happen. Start today to work toward being your best self this year.
Next week, steps three and four.
Ann, great advice and encouragement. Thank you for the thoughtful insights.
Thanks so much, Deanna! Are there any topics you would like me to look at in future blogs?