Many people have been affected by dementia. In fact, over 5 million people are thought to be suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease in America, with many more being diagnosed with other forms of the disease. A recent study has found links between regular sauna use and lowering your chances of a dementia diagnosis due to the benefits that impact cognitive health.
What is Dementia?
Far from being just one disease, dementia is a broad term used to define various types of cognitive impairment. It’s most commonly associated with memory loss, and an inability to complete ordinary daily activities such as washing, dressing and walking.
Some people may decline quickly, and others over many years. Sadly, a large number require intensive support and care towards the end of their lives. The most common forms of dementia are Alzheimer’s Disease and Vascular Dementia, though there are thought to be over 100 different types.
Every effort is being made to find a cure for dementia, unfortunately attempts have fallen short. Until a way to reverse, stop, or continuously suppress the effects of dementia is developed, focus is directed toward prevention through a healthy lifestyle.
Dementia is not a natural part of aging. Not eating well, exercising regularly, and not smoking are all believed to lower your chances of developing the disease. In addition, some studies have shown that regular sauna use can also help prevent the onset of dementia.
The Findings of a Recent Study
A study has recently been published that has found links between lowering your chance of a dementia diagnosis and sauna use. A group of men aged in their 60s, 70s and 80s were tested initially in the 1980s, and once again 20 years later.
The men all visited the sauna either once a week, 2-3 times a week, or 4-7 times a week. The study found that those who used saunas most often were less likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s disease than those who hadn’t.
While there’s still more research to be done to understand exactly how sauna use can help to prevent dementia, this study shows that there certainly is a benefit to using one regularly.
Can an Infrared Sauna Help Prevent Dementia?
The use of an infrared sauna supports a healthy lifestyle. Saunas can help with all aspects of aging, including:
- Managing high blood pressure
- Improving circulation
- Lowering pain levels
- Encouraging healthy skin.
It is thought that the heat an infrared sauna produces has many positive effects on the body, as it penetrates deeply into tissues to promote healing and increase your metabolism.
The study above demonstrates that there could be a link between sauna heat and effective brain function. Although participants in the study all used traditional units, the only significant difference between a traditional sauna and an infrared sauna is convenience. Infrared saunas produce direct, instant heat, while traditional saunas rely upon steam generated by placing heated stones in water.
At Home Sauna Treatment for Dementia
If frequent use is recommended to stop the development of dementia, heading to the gym every time you want to step inside the sauna can be taxing. The best option is to have an infrared sauna at home, so that you and your family are able to use it whenever you need.
Sources:
Sauna bathing is inversely associated with dementia and Alzheimer's disease in middle-aged Finnish men, Academic.oup.com
What is Dementia? , Alz.org
