Memory and reaction time may start declining around 70th birthday. Some elderly might even develop Alzheimer's.

Here are just some tips the caregiver of someone with Alzheimer's should note:
1. Many people with Alzheimer's do not want to escape from home and most of them do not get lost or go wandering.
2. Almost all anger in Alzheimer's is reactive, not groundless: There are usually causes in their behaviour.
3. Most of them need never become incontinent.
4. Very few of them die helplessly in bed.
5. They can still enjoy the wonders of life.
6. Unconditional love has a positive effect on the person.

Lavender Essential Oil is a very crucial resource for dealing with dementia. It is soothing but not sedating and evokes a peaceful sensation. Aromatherapists believe it has relaxing effects, can calm anxiety and help one sleep.

Prevention or curbing memory loss in old age for the ease and comfort of life
Perhaps one can try the "association method" introduced by many self-help memory books. Basically you just associate the thing you want to remember with something that you are familiar with. For example, if you want to remember the name Pearly, you might want to notice that she has a set of pearl white teeth or that she loves to wear white or she's like an angel....

Diet
Garlic has been known to have antibacterial action, as a blood cleanser, as an anti-inflammatory agent, boost the vascular system and lessen cholesterol in the body.

Ginseng can improve cognitive functions, and is particularly good for the elderly. It may not be suitable for children and adults. Do not overdose, as it can be over-stimulating.

Green Tea is an excellent antioxidant and helps to detoxify liver and kidneys, all of which helps to improve brain functions. In fact, most teas are good for health.

Vitamin Bs helps memory and good brain functions. Consume 1500-3000mg Vitamin C per day for good general and brain health. Vitamin E has been noted to help people resist Alzheimer's disease or slow it down. Daily doses of folic acid should be 400mg to prevent dementia, depression and psychiatric problems in elderly. Not forgetting minerals: supplement yourself with a little magnesium to maintain a balance between magnesium and calcium in the brain; take 50-100mg selenium as most elderly is deficient of it and it is a strong antioxidant and immune booster; take 30-50mg of zinc as it is anti-aging and protects the brain from damage.

Balanced diet and exercise habits are known to uphold good health and prevent diseases. Consume plenty of fruits (e.g. pear) and vegetables to obtain sufficient boron, which will help keep the mind strong. Sweet potatoes contain vitamins that give the brain a boost in performing certain functions. Limit consumption of caffeine and sugar. Avoid preservatives, food dyes, additives and food that are almost all-chemical ingredients.

Exercise promotes general well being, smooth blood flow to the brain, and good feelings thus it enhances memory too. Walking is a convenient and the easiest form of exercise. Researchers have found that women who walk regularly are less likely to suffer from memory loss and other declines in mental abilities associated with age. They say that taking brisk stroll each day is the best way to keep their brains young. This might be stemmed from an increased flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain during exercise.

Life-long learning and being involved in complex jobs ensure that the brain is constantly stimulated, thereby reducing the risk of Alzheimer's. Studies have found that older people can study as well as youths though they might take slightly longer to learn.

It's good to learn new skills or hobbies, such as knitting, which will keep your fingers nimble and your brain agile.

Stress destroys memory cells, thus it is vital to learn to manage stress well. Stress management classes, meditation, and exercises like tai chi or yoga and the right diet can deal with stress.