Did you know? The leading cause of death for Riverside County residents ages 65+. In Riverside County, Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) is a significant and growing health concern with disproportionate effects on specific demographic groups. In recent years, Black African Americans have experienced a higher age-adjusted rate of death from ADRD in Riverside County than other larger race/ethnicity groups, as well as an earlier median age at death from ADRD. These issues may be exacerbated by disparities in the availability and utilization of caregiving resources. Clinical neuropsychologist, Dr. David Franklin, Psy. D., M.H.A., shares his insights on Alzheimer's below.

What is Alzheimer’s? 

Dr. Franklin: Alzheimer’s disease is the 5^th leading cause of death in the United States for individuals who are 65 years and older. As a fatal disease that kills nerve cells and tissue in the brain, it affects an individual’s ability to remember, think, and plan. Ultimately, those with the disease will lose their ability to communicate, recognize family and friends, and care for themselves. 

Being Aware Can Help 

Dr. Franklin: There are not enough healthcare specialists to care for the number of individuals who will suffer from this devastating disease state. There are over 700K people who suffer from this disease state in California and approximately 12% of individuals over the age of 65 also suffer from the disease.

Things You Can Do to Help Your Brain 

According to alz.org, there is growing evidence that you can reduce your risk of cognitive decline by adopting key lifestyle habits. 

Here are some things you can do to keep your brain healthy: 

• Follow your heart: Monitor your blood pressure, get tested for diabetes, and maintain cardiovascular health. 

• Take care of your head: Wear a seat belt and a helmet when playing contact sports or riding a bike. 

• Eat a balanced diet: Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables. 

• Get some sleep: Keep your thinking and memory sharp. 

• Take care of your mental health: Seek treatment if you suffer from depression or anxiety. 

• Stay socially engaged: See friends and family regularly. 

• Challenge your mind: Engage in activities that require deep thinking, like building something or playing strategy games. 

• Exercise: Elevate your heart rate, increase blood flow, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. 

• Continue learning: Take classes to keep your brain active. 

• Stop smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of cognitive decline. 

The Time To Act Is Now.  

UCR Health and UCR School of Medicine are proud sponsors of the annual Walk to End Alzheimer's Inland Empire on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024. Interested in participating?  

Check out our team page at: http://act.alz.org/goto/ucrhealth  

Riverside University Health System - Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias: https://shorturl.at/UMRBJ

Questions? Please contact david.franklin@medsch.ucr.edu. 

UCR Health’s Specially Trained Providers Are Here to Help Keep You Healthy 

Talk to your UCR Health primary care provider for more information. If you don't have a primary care provider, find one by visiting https://www.ucrhealth.org/make-an-appointment/ or give us a call at 1-844-827-8000. Celebrate your health by taking care of your brain. We're here to help you stay healthy through every stage of life. 

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists, and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.