If you’re a fan of Iron Man, Thor, or Captain Marvel, maybe you remember the S.H.I.E.L.D. agent who occasionally appeared and eventually got his own spin-off TV show: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
As mere mortals, we don’t possess such superpowers, but we can utilize choice and habit to create our own shield.
The SHIELD plan, developed by McCance Center Co-Director Rudolph Tanzi, is an acronym to remember how to take care of your elder's brain.
SHIELD stands for Sleep, Handling stress, Interaction with friends, Exercise, Learning new things, and Diet. I want to emphasize the social piece of SHIELD, namely, interaction with friends.
Human nature is to be social creatures by default, whether that shows in introverted, extroverted, or ambivert behaviors. People with active social lives through their faith community, golf club, book club, or bridge club benefit from positive social engagement.
In addition to the sense of belonging and shared interest of these clubs, they also provide a resource for support when illness or accidents occur. Everyone handles personal challenges differently — some are more apt to reach out, while others prefer to keep matters private. A circle of friends or calls to local agencies or experts is an excellent place to seek support and care.
Lifelong learning is another way to boost brain health. Over a century after the initial documented case of Alzheimer’s disease, there is no known cause or cure. Dementia is the umbrella term used to describe the more than 200 types of diseases that cause cognitive impairment. These diseases include vascular, aphasia, Parkinson’s, and more.
Arizona is the fastest growing state in the nation for Alzheimer’s and dementia related diseases. Pursuing new things helps create new pathways in the brain. Pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone forces your brain to engage differently. Taking up pickleball, learning a new language, playing an instrument, or practicing a new hobby can boost your brainpower.
Volunteering is another way to challenge yourself and foster social interaction. Consider sharing your career expertise with an area non-profit, becoming an ESL (English as a second language) volunteer, or helping at a local animal shelter.
Recognize which parts of your SHIELD are already in place, and which areas may need a little reinforcement. Finding your community is key to maintaining your physical, mental, and social well-being.
After all, what is good for the body is good for the brain, too. Incorporating these habits into our daily routine may be challenging for many of us, but the benefits are well worth the effort!
Nicole J. Smith is the author of “Diagnosis Dementia: Your Guide for Eldercare Planning and Crisis Management.” After her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2021, Nicole took it upon herself to grow her knowledge of dementia and its effects on the mind, body, and well-being of those with the condition. Her book shares her story and many resources for managing aging and caregiving's medical, financial, legal, and emotional aspects. Visit http://njsmithbooks.com for more information.
Dementia is the umbrella term used to describe the more than 200 types of diseases that cause cognitive impairment.
What is good for the body is probably good for the brain, too.
