How Living at Opus Newton Can Reduce the Risk of Dementia
Opus Newton is more than just a place to live — it’s a community dedicated to living well. Whether it’s discovering new passions through lifelong learning, contributing to the community through volunteer opportunities, or enjoying a state-of-the-art gym, walking trails, and more, we offer everything you need to nourish your mind, body, and spirit.
Research has shown that engaging in mentally stimulating activities, socializing with peers, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and improve cognitive function in older adults. This month, we want to highlight how community living at Opus Newton can support dementia prevention and improve overall wellness.
Physiology as we age
Aging is a natural part of life, and it’s accompanied by various changes in our bodies and minds. These changes can include everything from wrinkles and gray hair to slower reflexes and minor memory lapses. While these changes can sometimes be concerning, it’s important to remember that they’re a normal part of the aging process. However, it’s when these changes start to significantly interfere with daily life that it’s important to recognize there might be an underlying medical condition.
According to neurophysiologist and sports scientist Louisa Nicola, three main factors have the greatest impact on neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. These factors include lack of sleep, inadequate nutrition, and insufficient exercise. Additional research also attributes social deprivation and depression to increased dementia risk.
Defining Dementia
Dementia is a serious condition that affects cognitive functioning and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging, dementia is not. Dementia involves a decline in thinking, remembering, learning, and reasoning abilities, as well as behavioral changes that interfere with daily activities. Although memory loss is a common symptom, it’s not the only sign of dementia. People with dementia may also struggle with language, visual perception, attention, and personality changes.
Alzheimer’s and possible causes
Microscopic changes in the brain, often occurring years before noticeable memory loss, signal the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Experts agree that in a vast majority of cases, Alzheimer’s likely develops as a result of multiple factors including age, genetics, environment, lifestyle and coexisting medical conditions.
The human brain, a complex network of 100 billion nerve cells (also known as neurons), is responsible for everything from thought and learning to sensory perception. Each neuron connects with thousands of others, forming intricate communication pathways. These pathways enable the brain to process and store information, coordinate functions, and respond to the environment.
Scientists believe that Alzheimer’s disease disrupts the normal operations of brain cells. The exact starting point remains unclear, but much like a factory, problems in one area can lead to cascading failures in others. As damage accumulates, brain cells lose their ability to function, leading to irreversible changes in brain structure and cognitive decline.
While certain risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease — such as age and genetics — are unavoidable, there’s strong evidence that seniors can reduce their risk by making key lifestyle changes.
The heart-head connection
Did you know that research has consistently shown a strong link between cardiovascular health and cognitive function? Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can damage blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen to the brain. This can then contribute to cognitive decline, memory loss, and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Maintaining cardiovascular health is therefore crucial for protecting both your heart and your brain. Actionable steps for prevention include:
- Diet and exercise. A proven strategy to help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia, is through regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy diet. Exercise raises your heart rate, which increases blood flow to the brain and body. At Opus Newton, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to build more movement into your day. Whether it’s visiting the courtyard with raised gardens and outdoor exercise equipment, walking paths, fitness area, or stopping by the JCC campus to utilize their indoor pool, tennis courts, fitness programs and more.
We also believe that dining should be a delightful and nourishing experience. Our commitment to variety and quality ensures that you have access to a wide range of healthy options. By providing essential nutrients and supporting your well-being, we aim to help you maintain a balanced lifestyle. Our dining program will feature themed nights, restaurant pop-ups, potlucks, and meal delivery group dinners, to create a dynamic and engaging culinary experience.
- Smoking cessation. Smoking’s impact on the circulatory system can’t be overlooked. In addition to raising blood pressure and heart rate, smoking causes blood vessels in the skin to constrict, carrying less oxygen to the body. Additionally, smoking can increase the risk of blood clots, which can block blood flow to the brain and heart.
- Sleeping well. Prioritize quality sleep for optimal brain health. Avoid screens before bed, create a comfortable sleep environment, and minimize disruptions. If you experience sleep problems like sleep apnea, we recommend talking to a healthcare provider.
- Manage chronic conditions. If you have chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, effective management is crucial for improving your overall health. While diet and exercise are essential, working closely with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions can help minimize the damage they can cause to your cardiovascular system.
The social connection
We all crave connection, regardless of age. Yet, as time goes on, many of us find ourselves spending more time alone. Factors like health conditions, mobility limitations, and changing environments can contribute to feelings of isolation and depression. Staying socially connected is vital for emotional well-being and overall health, especially for seniors. Social isolation and loneliness are associated with higher risks for:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- Depression
- Cognitive decline
- Dementia
- Weakened immune system
- Anxiety
What’s more, people who feel lonely or isolated are more likely to exercise less, smoke, or sleep poorly, further increasing risk or worsening health conditions. However, there are ways to prevent social isolation and loneliness. Some of those actionable steps for prevention include:
- Getting social. Research shows that regular social interaction can boost mood, improve cognitive function, and even increase longevity. Building and maintaining meaningful relationships — whether through family, friends, or community involvement — can help combat loneliness and provide a sense of purpose.
Whether it’s trying a new fitness class on-site, taking a dip in the pool at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Boston (JCC), or joining a club on campus, living in community makes it easier to establish new connections with neighbors. Plus, with our robust volunteer program, you can discover a new way of living and giving back while staying engaged in your interests.
- Experiencing the community. There’s so much to see, people to meet and things to do. Located on the vibrant campus of the JCC, Opus makes it easy for residents to access a wealth of services and amenities, both on-site and nearby. Opus will be joined to Coleman House by a two-story Campus Center featuring gathering spaces, a restaurant, art studio, classroom, volunteer hub, and meeting rooms. Gain access to an indoor pool, tennis courts, fitness programs, and exciting multigenerational activities — all on one campus.
Beyond the JCC, our local area is packed with possibilities. Explore the nearby Newton Community Farm, Nahanton Park, or Cutler Park. Paddle through scenic landscapes on the Charles River. Or indulge in shopping, dining, and entertainment options in Newton and Needham.
Living well starts with being well.
By fostering a supportive and engaging community, Opus Newton aims to help residents thrive and reduce the risk of social isolation and its associated health challenges. Contact us today and discover a world of possibilities for a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
SOURCES
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8033981/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurophysiologist-shares-top-3-drivers-of-alzheimers/id1381257272?i=1000660297181
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8033981/
https://www.alz.org/media/documents/alzheimers-dementia-diabetes-cognitive-decline-ts.pdf
https://www.alz.org/help-support/brain_health/10-healthy-habits-for-your-brain
