Alzheimer’s is a progressive and severe brain disease with symptoms including memory loss, problems with daily activities, and psychological changes. The latter stages of Alzheimer’s can often be characterised by symptoms like confusion, agitation, and a decreasing capacity to carry out activities in the day-to-day.
Dementia – of which Alzheimer’s disease is the most predominant – accounts for around 15 people per 1,000 Australians (19 per 1,000 women and 12 per 1,000 men).
The density in population of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease in Australia is predicted to increase to 400,000 in less than a decade.
Many treatment modalities prove to be effective for Alzheimer’s disease, such as antioxidant therapy, dietary supplementation, hormone replacement, and cognitive rehabilitation. Among these, however, one of the least intrusive and comparatively gentle options is the use of infrared saunas. The physiological effects induced by the heat of an infrared sauna, available through home sauna, has its potential benefits not only physically, but also in cognitive health and Alzheimer’s risk reduction.
How do saunas affect the brain
Recent studies have revealed that going to the sauna may be used to enhance cognitive functions and might also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s or dementia. The heat from a sauna involves the widening of the blood vessels in the brain, stimulating the production of new neurons, while the stress-relieving impact can also improve the actual preservation of cognitive ability.
But how do saunas affect the brain and relate to Alzheimer’s?
1. Increases heat shock proteins
Heat Shock Proteins are recognised for their significant role in tissue restoration and resistance against a wide variety of threats. Thermoregulation via sauna use may stimulate the body’s production of these proteins and may help the system increase control over stress and build up cellular tolerance. This process could be manifested in the case of the brain in which the brain might slow down or make up for the negative impacts of neurodegenerative processes that are typically observed in patients of Alzheimer’s disease.
However, HSP’s role in Alzheimer’s management remains an untapped area that needs further studies.
2. Increase blood flow to the brain
Regular sauna baths have been shown to affect cognitive health by elevating the level of blood circulation into the brain. This is conducted via dilatation of blood vessels caused by heat, facilitating circulation of the brain’s oxygen and nutrient supply.
Thus, cognitive functions may be supported, which may represent a preferable option in the context of Alzheimer’s disease. For those determined to sustain at-home care and independent treatment, sauna use has the potential to integrate as an alternative treatment in a long-term, sustainable way. Nevertheless, the conclusion regarding the direct link between intensified blood flow and a reduction of Alzheimer’s risk is still debatable.
Optimising Alzheimer’s Care with Home Sauna Sydney
Home sauna may help the brain to think better and even assist with Alzheimer’s disease while consulting with a doctor is recommended as the risky factors include age, cardiovascular health and diet.
Experience the cognitive benefits of a sauna at your own home with SunStream Saunas. Regardless of whether you would like to have a small design model to fit the small room size or a larger one to fit the family members, there is always a sauna that you need. Contact us today and we will help you choose the right Home Sauna model in Sydney.
Sauna sessions can potentially impact the cognitive brain and may help with Alzheimer’s disease, however, it is important to consult with the doctor as Alzheimer’s is connected with several risk factors such as age, cardiovascular health, and diet.