CORNELIUS, N.C. — Wednesday marked the official first day of summer, which means it’s the day with the most light.
The Alzheimer’s Association took advantage of that extra sunlight with its fundraising campaign called “The Longest Day.”
The association says it is a day where people from across the world fight the darkness of Alzheimer’s with a fundraising activity of their choice.
The Lake Norman Bridge club held a bridge tournament this week to raise money.
Member David Smith says he participates because he knows people who’ve had the disease.
His mother-in-law lived with Alzheimer’s.
“My wife is one of four children,” Smith said. “My mother-in-law got to the point where she did not know any of the children by name.”
The Alzheimer’s Association says 180,000 North Carolinians live with the disease.
“So the greatest risk of Alzheimer’s is having a brain,” said Christine John-Fuller, the vice president of communications for the Alzheimer’s Association of North Carolina. “So we all kind of fall into that category. And so what we want to do is make sure individuals understand what they might be able to do to reduce the risk of diagnosis, and if they are diagnosed there is also ways in which they can adopt healthy lifestyles that can also help slow the progression of the disease.”
The CDC says while scientists are working to understand its causes, more evidence is emerging that healthy behaviors, such as challenging activities like bridge, may lower the risk.
Smith sees the benefit for other members.
“And it’s wonderful to see the stimulation they get from playing,” he said. “Their minds are kept active, and they enjoy the playing. It’s a social event for all of us.”
The Alzheimer’s Association says Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive disabilities serious enough to interfere with daily life.
Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases.
They add dementia is not a single disease; it’s an umbrella term that covers a wide range of specific medical conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Disorders grouped under the general term “dementia” are caused by abnormal brain changes. These changes trigger a decline in thinking skills, also known as cognitive abilities, severe enough to impair daily life and independent function.
They also affect behavior, feelings and relationships.
John-Fuller says the Alzheimer’s Association offers tips to reduce the risk of cognitive decline, including exercising regularly and maintaining a heart-healthy diet.
She says mentally challenging activities, such as learning a new skill, adopting a new hobby or engaging in formal education, may have short- and long-term benefits for your brain.
The association also stresses social engagement, saying remaining socially active may support brain health and possibly delay the onset of dementia.
John-Fuller says the Alzheimer’s Association’s chapters in North Carolina offer free education programs and support groups to help all North Carolina caregivers and their families. For a complete list or to register for upcoming programs, visit alz.org/northcarolina or call the 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900).