ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – An New Mexico doctor from the Optum healthcare system recommends staying active, sleeping well and staying social to support brain health as Alzheimer’s cases keep rising.

Dr. Jaren Trost said about one in nine adults over 65 lives with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.

Trost said close to 7 million people, or 6.9 million, had Alzheimer’s in 2020, and doctors expect that number to reach 14 million by 2060.

“What I love, what I’m passionate about as a doctor, is coming up with those early signs,” said Trost.

Trost said everyday habits matter. He pointed to aerobic activity like walking, regular social time and good sleep as key ways people can support brain health.

“Staying active is just a huge thing, right?” said Trost.

Trost said families should watch for memory and thinking changes in everyday life. He said trouble managing medications or money can be an early sign that someone needs help.

“I always say to my patients that if you’re having trouble with pills and bills, that’s usually a sign that you’re maybe having some memory cognition issues,” said Trost.

Trost also said poor sleep can affect cognition and other parts of health. He said people who do not wake up refreshed or who snore heavily should talk with a doctor because sleep apnea can play a role.

“Sleep is probably the most important human function,” said Trost.

Trost said there is no way to prevent Alzheimer’s, but doctors can look for changes early through screening.