BANGOR – Northern Light Health is proud to recognize June as Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia while promoting strategies for lifelong brain health.
Maine is home to the oldest population in the United States, with a higher percentage of residents aged 65 and older than any other state. This reality brings both opportunities and challenges, particularly when it comes to our cognitive health. As more Mainers live longer, maintaining brain health has never been more important.
“While aging brings changes to our bodies and minds, cognitive decline is not inevitable,” Cliff Singer, MD, DFAPA, AGSF, director, Northern Light Memory and Aging at Acadia Hospital, said. “We are seeing rapid advancements in Alzheimer’s treatment, including new disease-modifying therapies that target the underlying biology of the disease. These developments offer real hope for slowing progression when caught early. At the same time, we know that many lifestyle factors can help preserve cognitive function well into old age.”
The landscape for Alzheimer’s care is evolving quickly. New FDA-approved medications are helping to slow cognitive decline in early-stage patients by reducing amyloid plaques in the brain. The team at Northern Light Memory and Aging are actively staying at the forefront of these innovations, offering comprehensive evaluations, diagnostic services, and access to the latest treatment options for patients and families across Maine.
Research consistently shows that proactive steps can significantly support cognitive vitality as we age. These include regular physical activity, heart-healthy eating patterns, staying socially connected and mentally active, managing blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol, prioritizing quality sleep and stress reduction and avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol use.
“Protecting your brain health is one of the most important investments you can make for your future and your family’s future,” Dr. Singer said. “Early detection, timely treatment when appropriate and healthy lifestyle choices together give us the best opportunity to age with dignity and independence.”
For more information on Northern Light Memory and Aging and to join our research registry, MAINAH, visit northernlighthealth.org/MemoryAndAging.