Mahaska Health Partnership Educates on Alzheimer’s Disease
Mahaska Health Partnership
MAHASKA COUNTY – Approximately one out of eight people suffer from Alzheimer’s disease; a condition that affects the memory, usually in those 65 and older. Mahaska Health Partnership suggests ways to keep your mind healthy throughout life.
“Alzheimer’s is a disease that causes someone to have a hard time remembering recent events, though they may remember things from long ago,” MHP Family Practice Physician Peter Hoftiezer, DO, explained. “As time progresses, so does the disease, affecting other bodily functions and hindering a person’s ability to perform as they normally would.”
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s include an inability to complete everyday tasks, trouble concentrating, confusion or frustration especially at night, dramatic mood swings and outbursts, disorientation, trouble with walking or coordination and trouble communicating with others.
“This disease not only affects the person, but also their loved ones,” Dr. Hoftiezer empathized. “Alzheimer’s eventually breaks brain tissue down and those with the disease may forget who their loved ones are, as well as how to take care of themselves. While there is no cure for this disease, taking steps to boost your mental well-being can help reduce your risk and improve overall health for years to come.”
While there are some risk factors such as age or genetics that a person cannot control, there are lifestyle habits that can help keep the mind healthy. “Like many other health conditions, regular exercise and a healthy diet may reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s,” Dr. Hoftiezer shared. “Certain chronic conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure may increase risk, so managing and preventing those health concerns can help.
“Staying cognitively active plays a big role in memory health,” Dr. Hoftiezer continued. “Whether it’s interacting with others socially, doing intellectual activities such as reading or puzzles, or going to museums and continuing to learn new things, your mental health will benefit!”
According to Dr. Hoftiezer, the best way to prevent memory decline as you age is to stay active. “Whether it’s a regular lunch date with a friend, attending your grandchildren’s school events or taking a walk every afternoon, movement and interactions have huge benefits not only on your brain, but your physical health as well. Find a buddy to go with you and you both will benefit!”
Dr. Peter Hoftiezer is a Family Practice Physician with specialized training in geriatric care at Mahaska Health Partnership. He provides primary care to patients of all ages in the Medical Group. Dr. Hoftiezer has a special interest in the prevention and treatment of diseases and disabilities most commonly occurring in adults as they age. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Hoftiezer, call 641.672.3360.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit mahaskahealth.org.
