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HOSA students urge early awareness of Alzheimer’s symptoms, prevention strategies
Summary
Members of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) gave a two-minute informational presentation to the youth council about early symptoms of Alzheimer’s, higher prevalence in some groups, and lifestyle strategies that may reduce risk.
Members of HOSA, the Health Occupations Students of America, gave an informational presentation to the youth council about the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease and steps young people can take to promote brain health.
A HOSA presenter told the council that ‘‘Alzheimer's is a progressive neurological disease that affects cognitive and mental abilities’’ and noted that it most commonly affects adults 60 and older. The students said some groups, including Hispanics and African Americans, are especially affected and urged early diagnosis and caregiver planning.
The presenters listed common early symptoms — short-term memory loss, misplacing items, repeating questions and forgetting names — and recommended lifestyle measures that research has shown may help: frequent exercise, a balanced diet, cognitively stimulating activities such as puzzles and word games, regular sleep (the students recommended about eight to 10 hours for teenagers) and social engagement.
The students closed by offering an Instagram handle for more information, given in the presentation as "memoriesmatter.holza." They asked the council to help raise awareness and thanked attendees for listening.
The presentation occurred during the public-comments portion of the youth council meeting. After the police tour was interrupted by an active homicide investigation, the council moved to reschedule the remainder of the agenda.
