The number of people living with dementia is projected to double by 2050, posing a significant challenge to individuals, families, and healthcare systems worldwide. As our population ages, understanding and preventing neurodegenerative diseases becomes critical to enhancing quality of life and extending healthy years.
HealthspanMD, based in Phoenix, AZ, is a leading provider specializing in cardiology and longevity care. Our comprehensive approach focuses on preventive practices and personalized treatment plans to help you maintain cognitive health and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Whether you're seeking ways to bolster your heart health or explore strategies for long-term well-being, HealthspanMD is here to support you every step of the way. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards safeguarding your future health.
In a recent episode of the HealthspanMD Podcast, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst sat down with Dr. Amber Enright, a healthcare innovator and physical therapist who specializes in treating patients with neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, brain cancer, and Parkinson's disease. Dr. Enright’s philosophy and innovative practices remind us that healthcare is more than treating symptoms—it’s about improving lives.
Join us as we delve into the topic of neurodegenerative diseases, their causes, and ways to prevent them.
What Are Neurodegenerative Diseases?
Neurodegenerative diseases are a diverse group of disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration of the structure and function of the nervous system. These diseases lead to a gradual decline in cognitive and physical capabilities, affecting daily life activities and overall quality of life. They typically involve the loss of neurons and their networks, which impairs communication between different areas of the brain and body, leading to symptoms such as memory loss, motor dysfunction, and a range of other neurological impairments.
Some of the most common neurodegenerative disorders include:
- Alzheimer's Disease: This is the most common form of dementia, primarily affecting the elderly. It is marked by a gradual decline in memory, language, reasoning, and other cognitive abilities.
- Parkinson's Disease: A disorder that mainly affects movement, causing tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, and balance problems.
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, ALS is characterized by the degeneration of motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness, atrophy, and eventually paralysis.
- Huntington’s Disease: A genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, leading to motor dysfunctions, cognitive decline, and psychiatric symptoms.
What Causes Neurodegenerative Diseases?
Neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and brain cancer don’t have a single, identifiable cause. Instead, they arise from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. While we can’t pinpoint one reason for their development, understanding common risk factors can empower individuals to take preventive action.
Some major risk factors include:
- Age: The likelihood of developing neurodegenerative diseases increases significantly with age. “The primary diagnostic age group I see for these neurodegenerative diseases is earlier than people think, starting in your fifties,” Dr. Enright shared. “Some people have symptoms starting in their forties.”
- Family History: A genetic predisposition can elevate risk, especially in families with a history of conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.
- Health Conditions: Chronic issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol have been linked to an increased risk of these diseases.
Early detection and proactive management of these risk factors play a critical role in potentially preventing or slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
Can Neurodegenerative Diseases be Prevented?
While there is no definitive way to prevent neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or Alzheimer’s, addressing your risk factors and adopting a proactive approach to health can significantly lower the risk or slow disease progression. Though age and genetics can't be modified, making healthy lifestyle choices and changing certain behaviors can have a significant impact.
These include:
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain, supports cardiovascular health, and enhances cognitive function.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Engaging in mentally stimulating activities like reading, puzzles, or learning new skills can strengthen neural connections and delay cognitive decline.
- Dietary Choices: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress can accelerate cognitive decline. Incorporating relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help manage stress levels and promote overall well-being.
- Managing Chronic Conditions: Proper control of conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol is crucial for overall health and reducing neurodegenerative risk.
- Social Engagement: Staying socially active helps reduce stress and promotes emotional well-being, which can indirectly protect brain health.
How Dr. Enright Approaches Treatment
Dr. Enright’s approach to treatment is both innovative and deeply personal. As a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in patients with neurodegenerative diseases, dementia, and movement disorders, she emphasizes not just managing symptoms but improving quality of life. Her work revolves around meeting patients where they are and tailoring her care to their unique goals and challenges.
Dr. Enright’s philosophy is grounded in understanding her patients as individuals with diverse needs and aspirations. “I ask people where they find joy and purpose,” she explained, which enables patients to set meaningful goals. Whether it’s attending a family milestone, regaining independence in daily tasks, or even participating in favorite hobbies, Dr. Enright collaborates with her patients to achieve the goals that matter most to them.
Understanding the emotional toll of neurodegenerative diseases, Dr. Enright works to rebuild her patients’ sense of self-worth. She avoids treating patients as less capable, or infantilizing them, as she noted the harm of using 'motherese,' or speaking to adults in a patronizing tone. Instead, she treats her patients with the same respect and high expectations she would extend to anyone, helping them feel valued and motivated to perform at their best.
Each patient presents a new puzzle for Dr. Enright, and she thrives on finding tailored solutions. “I have to come up with a unique plan and problem-solve that with each patient,” she explained. Her approach to treatment exemplifies what healthcare can achieve when it prioritizes the patient’s goals, independence, and emotional well-being. By focusing on these core values, she transforms the lives of individuals and their families, offering hope and purpose where others may see only decline.
How HealthspanMD Can Help
At HealthspanMD, we know that brain health is a cornerstone of living a long, vibrant, and fulfilling life. That’s why it is one of our 3 Essentials for Longevity, alongside optimizing physical health and taking a proactive approach to your health. Taking care of your brain health isn’t just about addressing cognitive decline—it’s about enhancing your overall quality of life, staying sharp, and building resilience for the years ahead.
Our approach to brain health begins with a personalized and comprehensive evaluation. During this evaluation, we assess multiple facets of your well-being, including:
- Cognitive Function: Identifying any early signs of memory or processing changes and creating a strategy to support brain performance.
- Emotional Well-Being: Understanding your mental health and providing resources to build emotional resilience.
- Sleep Quality: Evaluating your sleep patterns to ensure you’re getting the restorative rest your brain and body need.
- Social Connection: Strengthening relationships and reducing feelings of isolation, which are crucial for emotional and cognitive health.
After this in-depth assessment, we work with you to craft a personalized plan that addresses your unique opportunities for improving brain health. Whether it’s through lifestyle changes, tailored interventions, or innovative therapies, we empower you to take actionable steps toward a healthier and more fulfilling future.
Take the First Step Toward Better Brain Health
At HealthspanMD, our mission is to guide you in creating a life full of vitality, purpose, and longevity. By prioritizing brain health as part of our comprehensive approach, we help you unlock your full potential to thrive at every stage of life.
To take the first step toward better brain health and longevity,schedule a consultation withHealthspanMD today. Together, we’ll identify the strategies that work best for you and set you on the path to a healthier, longer life.
