September is World Alzheimer’s Month and the statistics are staggering.

Alzheimer’s Disease International reports that every three seconds there is a new case of dementia diagnosed somewhere in the world with more than 50 million worldwide already living with it.

Sun Health reports there are many ways to keep yourself from being one of these statistics.

“The risk for Alzheimer’s is 65% higher among people with diabetes,” says Marty Finley

Sun Health’s Lead Memory Care Navigator for the Memory Care Navigator Program. “Anything interfering with blood supply and nourishment to the brain leads to increased risk of developing dementia.

Diabetes can lead to greater chances of developing vascular dementia which is actually more common than Alzheimer’s for diabetics”

This is why Ms. Finley recommends those bordering on developing diabetes check out Sun Health’s Diabetes Prevention Program, with programs offered in-person at the Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing as well as online with the newly launched “SunHealthDPP” program, the only one in Arizona approved by Medicare to offer online classes during the pandemic.

It is also one of a handful in Arizona recognized by the Centers for Disease Control.

The online options, with access on laptops and mobile phones, makes it convenient and safe for those looking to improve their health.

“Take our classes. Reducing your chances of dementia is something people can take charge of by managing blood sugar. Knowing these statistics should be something to motivate anyone who is at risk.” Ms. Finley said.

Sun Health’s Memory Care Navigator says taking care of the heart is another way to decrease your chances of developing dementia.

Sun Health also has help for those with chronic conditions as heart disease.

Its new SunHealth360 program is specifically focused on weight loss and lifestyle changes, which lead to better management of heart, vascular and other diseases.

As Ms. Finley said, “What is good for the heart is good for your brain.”

Sun Health encourages everyone to take advantage of its program even if they don’t live in the West Valley thanks to its new online options.

To learn more visit SunHealthDPP.org or call the Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing at (623) 471-9355 during normal business hours.

Editor’s note: This article was submitted by Sun Health.