As people age, questions about memory and dementia become more urgent. In this article, Dr. Christina Li talks about brain health and provides tips to support older adults and family caregivers.
Dr. Li is a primary care physician at On Lok PACE, a full-service healthcare program that provides medical care and services to seniors, helping them live at home as long as possible. Dr. Li is board certified in internal medicine and geriatric medicine. She earned medical and master’s degrees from the UC Berkeley School of Public Health, and completed her training at Oakland Kaiser and geriatric medicine fellowship at Stanford University.
Dr. Li, what’s the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease?
Dementia is a broad term for a decline in memory and thinking skills that interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause; others include stroke, Parkinson’s, or even certain vitamin deficiencies. Most cases of Alzheimer’s appear in people in their 60s or 70s; age is the biggest risk factor. Long-term uncontrolled high blood pressure can also damage brain cells and increase the risk for strokes, which may lead to vascular dementia. Managing blood pressure is a vital part of dementia prevention.
What are the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s?
Trouble managing finances—like forgetting to pay bills—and difficulty keeping appointments are common early signs. Occasionally forgetting where you put your glasses isn’t worrisome but forgetting where you live is cause for concern.
Can dementia be prevented?
Three lifestyle factors can significantly reduce risk:
1. Staying socially connected. Social isolation contributes to cognitive decline.
2. Exercising regularly. Whether it’s walking, dancing, or tai chi, physical activity several times a week supports brain function, and reduces the risk of decline.
3. Eating a healthy, plant-based diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and fish. The “MIND diet” emphasizes these foods and avoids highly processed items, red meat, and sugar. This type of diet helps support both heart and brain health.
Can people with dementia live safely on their own?
If someone is wandering, forgetting medication, or using the stove unsafely, they likely need more support. To make the home safer for a senior with dementia:
Remove rugs and tripping hazards. Install grab bars in bathrooms. Disable stoves or use only microwaves.
Use baby monitors or cameras for supervision. Attach Apple Air Tags to shoes or jackets to track someone who might wander.
Prevent nighttime falls by using hospital beds that are low to the ground and have side rails, and ensure a walker is always close by. Installing motion-sensor lights or cameras also helps.
How does On Lok PACE help people with Alzheimer’s or other dementia?
On Lok PACE provides a comprehensive approach that includes day center care for structured supervision and activities; in- home caregiver support for tasks like medication reminders, bathing, or meal preparation; and care coordination with doctors, specialists, and transportation.
Can people age with a healthy brain?
Absolutely. Many older adults in their 80s and 90s remain cognitively sharp. Staying socially connected, exercising, and eating well make a significant difference. Early intervention and a supportive community can help people with dementia live with dignity for as long as possible.
