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Worldwide, 50 million people are living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. There are actions that you can take now to decrease your chances of developing this serious disease. The good news is that many of them you may already be doing.
Break a sweat. Regular cardiovascular exercise elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow to your brain.
Don’t smoke. Evidence shows that smoking increases the risk of cognitive decline.
Fuel your body right. Eating a healthy, balanced diet that contains fruits and vegetables lessens the risk of cognitive decline.
Take care of your heart. Evidence shows that risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes can negatively impact your heart health and your cognitive health, too.
Challenge yourself. Read a new book, pick up a crossword puzzle, learn a language or try other fun mind challenges for both short- and long-term brain benefits.
A great way to get started, hold yourself accountable and earn rewards is by completing one of the 11 Regence Empower interactive programs. These programs run for six weeks and there’s something for everyone. Here are a few that can help give your mind and body a boost:
- Managing Your Stress
- Enhancing Your Physical Activity
- Nutrition for Better Health
- Quitting Tobacco and Staying Tobacco Free
- Building Resilience
Learn more at regence.com or through the Regence Empower app. When you take part in one of these programs, you will be prompted to set a goal and create a “healthy habit” that will help you establish behaviors to achieve your goal. Progress will be measured by how you engage with program resources (articles, videos, etc.) and tracking your healthy habit. You will also need to complete the final assessment within the program for credit.
By completing one of the interactive programs, you and your covered spouse can earn a wellness contribution as part of the Asante Wellness Program. The value of the incentive will vary depending on your plan. Individuals on the Asante PPO Health Plan will earn a $50 contribution, and those on either an Asante Savings Health Plan or Asante Reimbursement Health Plan will receive a $150 contribution. Contributions will be made after the program has been completed. It may take up to six weeks for the employer contribution to appear in your HealthEquity account.
If you have questions, email Asante Benefits or call (541) 789-4551. You can also submit a case in the Ask HR section of myHR.
If you have a question, please contact the author or relevant department directly.
