Sharing our journey is helpful to caregivers in  many ways. Sharing helps me feel less alone and  helps me care for Mom in better ways. Hearing other caregiver struggles and being able to help is also a big reason to share our journey.  This episode is all about talking about the months just prior to my Dad's death.  Discussing his health issues and how they effected his memory may help others. I'm hoping that by sharing this part of my story it serves as a warning to others who may have similar struggles.

Dad struggled with many chronic health issues, most of which likely were made worse by his diabetes. By not controlling his blood sugar likely lead to his later cognitive problems. Warning all of us about this probability may have made things different. Not knowing of this risk, I question if Dad would have been more interested in taking care of his disease? Unfortunately, we'll never know.

Starting this podcast was a way to share what I've learned over the years, watching Dad care for Mom and caring for my Mom now myself.  Podcasting turned into a journey where I've learned even more. I've created bonds with other caregivers and helped a few as well.

Struggling to connect with my Mom has allowed me to connect with people and resources I was unaware of prior to this podcast. Talking to you and sharing this connections is a journey I am thrilled to have started. I hope that listening is having a positive impact on your caregiving journey.

Blood Sugar & Blood Pressure Links to Cognitive Issues

Researching topics for the podcast I've read lots of articles on the need to control our blood sugars and pressure. Learning about these important issues is allowing me to care for myself better as well. Having even somewhat elevated blood pressure causes damage to small vessels that help oxygenate our brains. Depriving our brains of oxygen is bad, we know this.  The good news is, research has shown that medication to reduce blood pressure works to help protect you from an increased risk of Alzheimer's. Therefore, it's important to monitor your blood pressure, keep it in check. Even better is to keep it in check as early as possible.

In addition to controlling blood pressure it's also important to control our blood sugar. Controlling blood sugar is a challenge for me because I am a sugar lover. Regardless, I have made many dietary changes to achieve a steady blood sugar because I refuse to make it easy for my body to fail me.

It goes without saying that too much sugar (and fat) leads to inflammation in our bodies. This inflammation can then cause the same damage as high blood pressure. This is extremely simplified so I've linked a couple of articles I found helpful.

Alzheimer’s & High Blood Sugar

Blood Pressure & Alzheimer’s Risk

Links to Past Episodes On Nutrition & Lifestyle Choices

Move It or Lose It! Exercise & Brain Health

This Is Your Brain on Nutrition

Obesity & Alzheimer's

Links to Fading Memories Social Media

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