Six years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, 90-year-old Zelik (Zel) Bocknek refuses to slow down, believing an active lifestyle is the key to controlling his symptoms.
Mr. Bockneck, a former business executive from Toronto, Ont., was 84 years old when he began experiencing minor memory loss, such as forgetting the days of the week and not knowing the answers to basic questions.
After being diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease, he was given the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial investigating an experimental dementia treatment.
Are you sleepy during the day? Research suggests it may be an early warning sign of dementia
Since the trial ended 18 months ago, Bockneck has continued to take her medication and continues to enjoy her favorite activities, including downhill skiing, painting and volunteering at her local zoo. .
Six years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, 90-year-old Zelik (Zel) Boxneck (pictured with his son on the right) continues to pursue his love of skiing. (Zelik Bocknek)
“You have to keep yourself active, both physically and mentally,” Bockneck said in an interview with FOX News Digital. “It’s important to stay busy.”
“Last year was the first time in over 70 years that we had such a warm winter that we didn't ski,” he said. “I expect it to be even better this year.”
Ozempic may reduce Alzheimer's risk for some people, study suggests: 'paradigm shift'
Boxneck also trains regularly at the gym to stay in tip-top shape for skiing, he and his wife, Gail Boxneck, told FOX News Digital during an interview.
His exercises of choice are stretching classes and strength training with weights.
Painting also became a passion project. Since starting her paint-by-numbers projects, Bocknek has honed her skills and now creates intricate pieces of art for her six grandchildren to display in their bedrooms.
“I'm on my 75th painting right now,” he said.
Zail Bocknek is pictured with his wife Gail. “You have to keep yourself active, both physically and mentally,” Bockneck said in an interview with FOX News Digital. “It’s important to stay busy.” (Zelik Bocknek)
In addition to working as an usher at the Toronto Zoo, greeting and guiding visitors, Bockneck also spends hours at a local hospital.
He also plays bridge with three different groups regularly throughout the week.
Bockneck has not shown any further cognitive decline, which he attributes to his busy schedule.
“I am who I am today because I have been very active both physically and mentally throughout my life.”
“I am who I am today because I have been very active both physically and mentally throughout my life,” he said.
“And it's important to be able to laugh. A sense of humor can get you through many difficult times.”
Fight Alzheimer's disease with exercise
Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, keeping neurons healthy, says Dr. Gail Saltz, associate professor of psychiatry at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical College.
“This includes centers associated with cognitive function, memory function, and even mood,” Saltz, who does not treat Bockneck, told FOX News Digital.
“To be clear, this won't stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease, but it may slow the cognitive effects.”
Increasing certain proteins in the brain may slow progression of Alzheimer's disease, researchers say
Beyond cognition, Saltz noted that exercise can also help patients improve their physical health, including their cardiovascular, flexibility and muscular systems.
“Improving or preventing the decline of these body systems can help people with Alzheimer's disease continue to participate in daily grooming, walks, and medical appointments, feel better, and live longer.” she added.
Spending time outdoors in the sun also increases serotonin, which could be beneficial for Alzheimer's patients, experts say. (Zelik Bocknek)
Physical activity can also help prevent nighttime wandering, a common danger in Alzheimer's disease patients due to malfunctioning circadian rhythms, says Shelly Snelling, a California gerontologist and spokesperson for Comfort Keepers. states.
“Keeping adults with Alzheimer's disease physically active during the day creates a more natural feeling of fatigue and helps them get better sleep at night,” says Snelling, who also does not treat Bockneck. he told FOX News Digital.
New type of Alzheimer's disease study reveals 'quiet' stage of disease before symptoms appear
Experts say spending time outdoors in the sunlight also increases serotonin, which may help reduce agitation and “sunset” episodes, when patients feel outbursts, delusions, and paranoia at dusk. he pointed out.
Any activity that increases heart rate may slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease, experts agreed.
“Any movement releases endorphins, the 'feel-good' hormones and natural pain relievers,” says Snelling.
“I'm relaxing and moving on with my life as best I can.”
Snelling recommended some specific activities that would be most beneficial for people with dementia.
“Walking is great, and it's important to do it with help because balance issues can cause your loved one to fall,” she said.
Yoga and tai chi are also recommended for older adults with Alzheimer's disease.
Bocknek has honed her painting skills and now creates intricate works of art for her six grandchildren to display in their bedrooms. One of his paintings is on display here. (Zelik Bocknek)
“Swimming and water aerobics are also great for older adults. The natural resistance of water is great for strengthening muscles, and the tactile sensation of water is calming for adults with AD,” Snelling said, adding that companions Being present for safety added important for caregivers as well.
Making music can also be helpful, she said, because musical memories are retained the longest in Alzheimer's disease brains.
stay sociable
Socialization and interaction can also help slow dementia-related decline, Snelling said.
“Staying mentally active and participating in social activities frequently has been reported to help prevent cognitive decline and delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease,” she told Fox News Digital. .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
This is another reason Snelling supports home care.
“Alzheimer's patients can do that, but it's important to stay in a familiar environment at home,” she says.
Another painting of Bockneck is depicted here. “I'm currently working on my 75th painting,” he told FOX News Digital. (Zelik Bocknek)
The number of Alzheimer's disease cases in the United States is projected to increase from 6 million to 13 million by 2050.
For others who may be experiencing cognitive symptoms, Bockneck says it's important to take steps to get a diagnosis as soon as possible.
Click here to sign up for our health newsletter
“If you feel like you have any problems with your memory or your brain, go get tested right away,” he advised.
For more health articles, visit: www.foxnews.com/health
Asked if he was worried about his condition getting worse, Bockneck said, “I'm not.”
“I'm relaxing and moving on with my life as best I can.”
