Leading a "Purposeful" Life Helps Stave Off Alzheimer's

Aimee Herd : Mar 11, 2010
News Staff – FOX, AP

Study: Purpose in life can cut Alzheimer's risk by more than half.

Over five million people in the United States suffer from Alzheimer's disease, but a new study shows that those who have a specific purpose and ambition in their life may cut their risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by a stunning 52 percent. The study involved over 900 patients.

Dr. Mark Siegel, a FOX News contributor, commented on the research saying that Alzheimer's is a "build up of abnormal proteins in the brain. [Having a purpose in your life] cuts down on inflammation in the brain and cuts down on stress (which can cause Alzheimer's)." (Photo: buildawebempire.com)

Dr. Siegel also agreed that a person who already has Alzheimer's could benefit from gaining a life purpose or ambition and staying active—he noted that his own father seemed to be keeping "sharp" by doing things on the computer and writing emails.

Personally, I cannot help but think about the Rev. Billy Graham, who even at 91, and being retired—according to his son Franklin Graham—is still writing books and offering counsel.

"He's not offering political advice, but he will offer spiritual advice to anyone who comes to him," says Franklin , in a recent AP report. "He's in pretty good health. His mind is just as sharp as a tack."

My own parents are also good examples; at 85, my father stays sharp by working on the household bills and budget, and putting together family photo albums. While my mother, at 82, has become quite computer savvy, and is even "texting" me from her cell now! Together they enjoy an annual spring vacation in Maui. But, the common denominator with them and the Rev. Billy Graham is that my parents are very committed to the Lord; daily spending time in His Word, in prayer together, and attending and staying active in their church.

I might even suggest, in light of this interesting study on Alzheimer's that, while it has been shown to be beneficial when a person has purpose, ambition and is mentally active in life; when their purpose includes a commitment to God's purposes, the benefit is even greater.

After all, the Bible does say…

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." -Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" –Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

"For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." -Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV)