Dementia & Brain Aging

Dementia encompasses many variations, often synonymous with Alzheimer’s, though not all dementia cases are Alzheimer’s. Dementia serves as an umbrella term for different brain-based diseases characterized by cognitive changes (CDC, 2024).

Within Indigenous communities, dementia is understood as a natural part of aging rather than a disease, leading to a need for culturally appropriate healthcare methods. The current healthcare system's standard approaches often prove less effective when addressing dementia in these communities (Chakanyuka, et al. 2021).

To support healthy brain aging and reduce the risk of dementia, older Indigenous adults emphasize staying mentally and physically active. Activities such as reading, puzzles, crafting, music, gardening, hunting, fishing, walking, and biking are beneficial. Engaging in ceremonies, church, and community events helps maintain social connections and mental health.

Dementia prevention and healthy aging in Indigenous communities involve holistic practices that nurture the body, mind, and spirit.

Healthy brain aging involves:

  • Staying physically active through sports, exercise, walking, and outdoor activities

  • Maintaining heart health

  • Keeping the mind engaged and challenged

  • Building and maintaining relationships with family and friends

  • Eating healthy foods, particularly from gardens or the land, and avoiding processed foods and soft drinks

  • Limiting alcohol and prescription drug use, with guidance from trusted healthcare workers

  • Participating in ceremonies and spiritual activities for balance

Aging well is a community effort involving younger generations. Sharing stories, songs, teachings, and language with children and youth helps keep older adults active and connected. Community activities, storytelling, and cultural teachings contribute to a sense of purpose and well-being(Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, 2017).

Terms to know

  • Dementia is a brain-based disease that is characterized by a set of symptoms that point to progressive cognitive decline. the symptoms arT generally (but not limited to):

    • Loss of Memory

    • Lack of Attention

    • Declining ability to Communicate

    • Trouble with Reasoning, judgment, and problem solving

    • Diminished visual perception beyond typical age-related changes in vision

    There are different types of Dementia and each type can be caused by a different factor that acts as a catalyst. Ie. Physical injury or trauma to the head due to sports, accidents or abuse. The most common type of Dementia is Alzheimer’s. (CDC, 2024)

  • Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia and accounts for a majority of cases. Many older adults live full lives without developing dementia, it is not commonly believed to be a normal part of the aging process. The trademark symptom of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering recent events, such as a conversation that occurred very recently, remembering the names of one’s grandchildren or children, or having trouble recalling the name of the city that one is residing in. Other concerns like difficulty with basic functions like speaking, walking, eating etc. eventually happen as the disease progresses. Family history is the most “telltale” risk factor. Having direct or nuclear family members who have Alzheimer’s disease increases the risk of developing it by a significant degree. (CDC, 2024)

    • Age

    The strongest risk factor for dementia is age, most often those who are 65 years of age or older are affected.

    • Family history and Genetics

    Those who have parents, grandparents, or siblings with dementia are more likely to develop dementia too.

    • Race/ethnicity

    Certain ethnicities are more likely to develop Dementia than others, ie. African Americans, Hispanics, and Indigenous Americans tend to develop dementia at higher rates than Caucasians and Asian Americans

    (AA, 2024)

    • Poor heart health

    High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking can contribute to vascular issues and reduced blood flow which can increase the risk of developing dementia

    • Traumatic brain injury

    Head injuries like concussions, seizures (JAMA, 2024), and strokes can be a contributing factor, due to brain damage and possible vascular/blood flow issues

    (CDC, 2024)

  • Doctors run tests on attention, memory, problem-solving and brain cognition, as well as conduct a questionnaire assessment, to see if the patient has dementia. Other exams like blood tests and brain scans can help determine a possible cause

    (CDC, 2024)

  • Other than “reversible dementia” the other types of dementia are Neurodegenerative, which means they cannot be cured or reversed. However, a few of the symptoms can be managed through medical intervention. Like, tools to help with drinking water and eating, as well as anxiety.

    Dementia is best treated by preventing it. This includes but is not limited to; lifestyle, exercise, healthy diet, social relationships, cognitive exercise ie. reading, and playing instruments, which studies have shown can help decrease the chances of developing many diseases.

    (CDC, 2024)