StayWell Guam Inc.

Know the Signs, Protect Your Brain | Alzheimer's and Brain Health Month

An estimated 7.4 million Americans are currently living with clinical Alzheimer's dementia, and the impact reaches far beyond the individual. Between 2000 and 2024, deaths due to Alzheimer's in the U.S. more than doubled, increasing by 134%. What makes this especially urgent is how early the disease begins. Alzheimer's starts 20 years or more before memory loss and symptoms ever appear, making awareness and early action critical for everyone, not just older adults.

Know the Warning Signs

A person with Alzheimer's often does not recognize that there is a problem, usually family members and close friends are the first to notice. Common early signs include:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Confusion with time or place
• New problems with words in speaking or writing
• Changes in mood, personality, and behavior

If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, bring it up at the next doctor's visit.

What You Can Do for Your Brain Health

Brain health is built through everyday habits. According to the Alzheimer's Association, several modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer's and other dementias have been identified that, if addressed, may delay the onset of symptoms and result in more years lived in good health. Start with these:

• Move your body — regular physical exercise may delay the onset of symptoms and slow disease progression
• Eat well — a diet that includes fish, olive oil, and plenty of vegetables supports brain health
• Sleep — aim for at least 7 hours a night
• Stay mentally active — read, doing puzzles, or learning something new
• Manage stress and treat depression — both are among the habits Americans most strongly link to brain health

These habits matter at every stage of life, whether you're in your 20s or your 70s. No matter where you are in life, the best time to start is now.

Take the Next Step

According to the Alzheimer's Association, 99% of adults say brain health is as important as physical health, yet only 9% say they know how to maintain it. That gap is something we can help to close.

At StayWell Insurance, we are more than just your insurance provider, we're your partner in health. This Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, we encourage you to prioritize your brain health and take advantage of the wellness resources available to you.