Body fats have shown to influence dementia risk factors

Intramuscular fat builds up between muscle tissues. It is a normal thing for the body to produce. As a natural occurrence in the body, it serves important functions such as providing energy and insulation. However, excessive levels of intramuscular fat can have negative effects on health.

When there is an abundance of intramuscular fat, it can lead to impairments in muscle function, decreased muscle strength, and contribute to insulin resistance.

Recent research is also showing a potential link between intramuscular fat and the risk of cognitive decline.

The classifications of intramuscular fat as “good” or “bad” can be complex, as impacts on health depend on factors such as overall fat distribution and individual health status. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle with regular exercise, a healthy diet and appropriate body weight can help manage intramuscular fat and reduce associated health risks.

 Study on intramuscular fat

According to researchers, older adults who experienced a rise in thigh muscle fat levels over five years displayed a more rapid and severe cognitive decline. Researchers examined whether muscle adiposity or muscle fat plays a specific and unique role in cognitive decline.

The study suggests that intramuscular fat has a special influence on cognitive decline, separate from other factors such as total body fat, weight, muscle strength and other traditional dementia risk factors.

Another concerning discovery is that fat stored in muscles has the potential to release inflammatory agents into the body. These inflammatory vehicles can reach the brain and affect its overall health.

The study on the association of cognitive decline focused on measuring muscle fat in the thighs of more than 1,500 adults between 69-79 years. The study evaluated cognitive function at various intervals, revealing that higher levels of thigh muscle fat were connected to a swifter and more pronounced decline in cognitive abilities among older men and women. More work is being done to learn about the effects of other stored fats in the body.

The positive outlook is that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, healthy diets, weight management and management of other risk factors can mitigate the potential impact of intramuscular fat on cognitive health.

Lifestyle & Amenities at Hollenbeck Palms

We offer a variety of lifestyle amenities and wellness services to support the health and well-being of all residents, with a focus on active and independent senior living.

Hollenbeck Palms community has a well-appointed gym with a personal trainer, providing various exercise classes like strength training, range of motion, aerobic workouts, Tai Chi and stretch yoga. Residents can also engage in social physical activities like playing on a putting green, shuffleboard or taking walks in the campus garden. A former resident has designed a koi pond for the purpose of mental and physical relaxation.

Community amenity highlights

 The dining experience is tailored to align with a healthy lifestyle, with the chef ensuring delicious and nutritionally balanced meals that can accommodate special dietary needs.

• The Assisted Living and Memory Enhancement staff provides residents with proper care that is coordinated with physicians, external medical services and pharmacies.
• At the Heideman Care Center, skilled nursing services, including rehabilitative care and therapies, are accessible for individuals with short-term illnesses or those who have been hospitalized.
• Hollenbeck Palms has convenient wellness clinics on campus where residents can access dental and podiatry professionals and receive blood pressure screenings and health checks.

Memory Enhancement Center

The Memory Enhancement Center at Hollenbeck Palms is designed to carry out specialized care and support for individuals with memory-related conditions, such as dementia symptoms or Alzheimer’s disease. We extend to our residents a comprehensive range of services and amenities to promote cognitive well-being and enhance the quality of life for residents.

The staff at our Los Angeles dementia facility are trained by dementia care expert Laura Wayman and aim to understand the unique needs of individuals with memory impairments and care for them through compassionate assistance.

Residents receive assistance with daily activities, medication management and personalized planning and care in accordance with their specific requirements. Engaging activities and programs stimulate cognitive function and encourage social interaction. Activities such as memory exercises, music therapy, art therapy and other recreational programs may be included.

Through these activities, residents are filled with joy, maintain mental fitness and form meaningful connections with others in our community.

We understand the challenges that come with dementia symptoms and strive to cater to each resident’s needs so they can be at their best. Our unwavering commitment is to an environment that is not only supportive, but also deeply enriching for each resident.

For those interested in exploring the Hensel Memory Enhancement Center, they can schedule a visit by reaching out to us via email at [email protected] or by calling us at (323) 307-4505.