For many people, the fear of losing control of their mental faculties as they grow older is a very real concern. We recently sat down with Dr. Jason Franks of Southern Medical Group for a discussion on maintaining good health even as we grow older. It's an issue he's passionate about and spends much time in research and thought. Dr. Franks outlined for us a number of risk factors that may contribute to dementia or its specific form known as Alzheimer's in later life.  Based on research in Finland known as the FINGER study, eight specific areas can be modified to reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age. Dr. Franks discusses each of these in today's podcast. Locally, there are many resources for families of dementia patients. Here are just two of them:   Nancy Bailey, CVM, is a community support specialist with the Area Agency on Aging. The agency maintains a website and a Facebook page which you can access by clicking the link.  There is a monthly support group for caregivers of dementia patients that meets at noon in the Community Room at the Lelia Enrichment Complex, 600 Lelia Street. Lunch is provided and a Zoom option is also available for those who can't leave home. Nancy can be reached at 870-626-3089/toll free, 800-272-2127, Ext. 105. Barbara Lewis is the contact person for the Caring Place,  a respite care program that gives the caregiver of Alzheimer's/Dementia patients some time away.  "While we have the patient we engage them in mind and body stimulating activities such as crafts, music, exercise and games," Barbara said.  There is a $30 per day fee; however, they don't turn anybody away. The Caring Place meets at First United Methodist Church in Magnolia.   Your personal physician is also an excellent resource for diagnosing and navigating the many issues involved in diagnosing and treated dementia and Alzheimer's patients. We are grateful to Dr. Franks for taking time to walk us through some of the areas we can address to help us avoid or delay onset of dementia. Take a listen to today's podcast and give some thought to how you can improve your health!

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