Strong Bonds between the Elderly and Their Children Helps Avoid Dementia

Visiting the elderly proves to be a vital factor in mental health and can even aid in the prevention of dementia, a recent study has discovered.

According to the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), families with “reliable, approachable and understanding” relationships are vital in preventing Alzheimer’s disease.

Although it also helps to have caring children and spouses, having a bad relationship or having no contact with them leads to ill effects. Those who get critical about their parents and are unreliable can become a cause of great interpersonal stress, thereby leading to both mental and physical health of elderly adults.

The research was conducted for a decade to over 10,000 participants (with interviews done in two-year intervals). After such time, it was reported that they incurred cognitive decline indeed. Questionnaires were likewise utilized to determine their families’ level of support.

Dr. Mizanur Khondoker, a medical statistics senior lecturer at UEA’s Norwich Medical School, emphasized that having a strong network of close relationships, as well as being married or having adult children is linked with a lower risk of dementia and cognitive decline.

Currently, there is no cure for such conditions. The best way to combat these is to adopt a healthy lifestyle to hopefully prevent it. For care providers and family members of the elderly afflicted by such, it is vital to be aware of the various techniques in living a healthy lifestyle. For those availing of home care services, know that there are also expert care providers ready to support your needs.