Do you need a bike helmet? You wouldn’t think that would still be a controversial question, but it is. The antihelmet contingent offers arguments such as: “Forcing people to wear helmets makes cycling seem dangerous,” and, “It discourages exercise.’’

Helmets aren’t a panacea, but you should wear one. Here’s why: Eighty-seven percent of the bicyclists killed in accidents over the past two decades were not wearing helmets, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. And when it comes to nonfatal injuries, a 2013 review by a committee at the Institute of Medicine found that wearing a helmet during sports reduces the risk of traumatic brain injury by almost 70 percent.

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A violent blow to the head can lead to traumatic brain injury, which can permanently damage the brain. Serious cases can lead to permanent complications or death.

To help prevent traumatic brain injury, the Mayo Clinic advises:

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A stroke, or “brain attack,” occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked or bursts.

The brain cannot store oxygen, so it relies on a network of blood vessels to provide it with blood that is rich in oxygen. A stroke results in a lack of blood supply, causing surrounding nerve cells to be cut off from their supply of nutrients and oxygen. When tissue is cut off from its supply of oxygen for more than three to four minutes, it begins to die.

Strokes can appear as hemorrhagic strokes, ischemic strokes or transient ischemic attacks.

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The evidence is mounting: You may be able to reduce your risk of cognitive decline by making key lifestyle changes. That is the conclusion of a new research summary published online in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association on June 16:

“The research on cognitive decline is still evolving,” said Sue Friedman, president and CEO of the Central and Western Virginia Chapter. “But there are actions people can take. Certain health behaviors known to combat cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes may also reduce the risk of cognitive decline. These include staying mentally and physically active, and eating a heart-healthy diet that benefits your body and your brain. There is also some evidence people may benefit from staying socially engaged with friends, family and the community.”

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When veteran Kevin Schmidt met his service dog Misty for the first time, he felt bonded to her almost immediately."When Misty came in the picture, my wife had written this letter and she had this one comment that really stuck out — she said, "The week that Kevin got Misty was the first time I saw him smile in years,'" Schmidt said. "I never thought about a service dog before I got Misty, and now I can't see what it would be like to be without her."


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