Raising Awareness for World Alzheimer’s Day
Each year on September 21st, World’s Alzheimer’s Day is observed to raise awareness and challenge the stigma around Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia.
Dementia is a condition that causes a gradual decline in cognitive abilities such as thinking, remembering, and reasoning to such an extent that it interferes with a person’s daily life and activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia – according to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease today.
Increasing age is the biggest known risk factor, with this disease mostly affecting people over the age of 65. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s begin mild but worsen over time. Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is crucial for managing the condition and improving the quality of life for those affected. See below for some signs to look out for:
- Memory Loss – This is the key symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. Difficulty remembering recent events and conversations is often an early indicator.
- Confusion with Time and Place – Someone with Alzheimer’s may struggle to keep track of dates, seasons, or locations.
- Difficulty Performing Daily Tasks – Individuals may struggle to complete chores or stick to a daily routine.
- Language Problems – Struggling to find the right words or repeating oneself can be a sign.
- Disorientation and Poor Judgment – Experiencing confusion or making poor decision-making skills.
- Mood and Personality Changes – Noticeable changes in mood, personality, or behavior, including withdrawal from social gatherings and activities.
While there is unfortunately no cure for dementia, there are some treatment options available that may temporarily slow the worsening of symptoms. Healthy lifestyle choices like the ones listed below can also make a difference in brain health, even lowering the risk of cognitive decline. As always, it is best to consult with a physician for individualized medical advice.
- Healthy Diet – Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins offers many benefits to brain health.
- Regular Exercise – Physical activities that raise your heart rate and increase blood flow to the brain and body can support cognitive function.
- Mental Stimulation – Activities that challenge the brain such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills help maintain cognitive abilities.
- Adequate Sleep – Good sleep hygiene maintains overall brain health.
- Chronic Disease Management – Managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
It’s important to note that the effects of Alzheimer’s extend beyond the person diagnosed; they impact their loved ones well. Caregivers typically take on wide range of responsibilities including assisting with daily activities, administering medication, coordinating doctor appointments, providing emotional support, and serving as their advocate in the healthcare system. As a result, caregivers also typically face emotional, physical, and financial challenges. Feelings of isolation, overwhelm, sadness, and frustration are often reported by caregivers. While World’s Alzheimer’s Day brings attention is given to those living with the disease, it’s essential to also recognize and support the caregivers who play a crucial role in their daily lives. If you’re a caregiver, know that you are not alone and that there are valuable resources available to help you navigate this challenging journey. If you need a place to start, please see some tangible tips below.
- Educate Yourself – Understanding the disease helps in providing empathetic and informed support. The Alzheimer’s Association is a great place to start whether you’re looking for reliable information, support, or referrals.
- Offer Practical Help – Assist with daily tasks, like grocery shopping, cooking, or transportation, to ease the burden of the people looking after the Alzheimer’s patient.
- Promote Independence – Encourage and support the person in performing tasks they can still manage.
- Create a Safe Environment – Modify living spaces to enhance safety and minimize risks or wandering or accidents.
- Join Support Groups: Connecting with others in similar situations can provide emotional support and practical advice.
- Take Care of Yourself: Caregiver burnout is real; ensure you prioritize your own health and well-being.
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Resources
Alzheimer’s Association. (2024). Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia; Alzheimer’s Association. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures
CDC. (2020, June 24). Healthy Body, Healthier Brain. Www.cdc.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/healthy-body-brain.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, October 26). What Is Alzheimer’s Disease? CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/alzheimers.htm#AlzheimersDisease?
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023, August 30). Alzheimer’s disease – symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic; Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447
What is Alzheimer’s Disease? | CDC. (2020, June 2). Www.cdc.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/alzheimers.htm#AlzheimersDisease
World Alzheimer’s Day is September 21, 2023 | alz.org. (2023). Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia. https://www.alz.org/about/awareness-initiatives/world-alzheimers-day
World Health Organization. (2023, March 15). Dementia. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia
Disclaimer
We want you to be well and to live your best life. The content in this blog is provided for the purposes to educate and entertain you: our very important reader. It is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for medical advice from a trained healthcare professional.
If you have a medical condition or are under the care of a medical provider, please always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional before undertaking a new health care regimen. To that point, never disregard medical advice or delay treatment for a medical condition because of something you read on this site.
Listen to your care providers as they know you and your condition best. Thank you for reading!
The Team at BSDI