Members of the public are encouraged to educate themselves about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia to provide the correct treatment and care.
This call came against the backdrop of World Alzheimer’s Day, annually observed on 21 September.
“While there is no cure, early detection can help manage symptoms,” said Murray Hewlett, chief executive officer (CEO) of Affinity Health.
The Alzheimer’s Association explained that though Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are related, they are not the same.
The association explained that Alzheimer’s disease starts with mild memory issues and can develop into serious challenges that affect daily activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of cases. Factors contributing to dementia include severe head injuries, infections, and vitamin deficiencies.
Dementia is a broad term that refers to a decline in thinking and memory skills. It happens when brain cells are damaged, which disrupts how they communicate with each other.
Alzheimer’s disease starts when harmful proteins build up in the brain, forming clumps and tangles. These proteins can damage the brain cells, which stop working properly – and eventually die. This damage often begins in the part of the brain that pertains to memory.
Hints on managing Alzheimer’s disease include:
- Learn about the disease and how it progresses to understand better what your loved one is going through.
- Remember that the disease causes the behaviour, not the person. Patience and understanding are key.
- Help with everyday activities while encouraging independence.
- Make modifications to prevent accidents and ease navigation at home.
- Help maintain connections with friends and family, which can benefit cognitive function.
- Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be challenging. Do not forget to look after your own physical and emotional health.
Signs of Alzheimer’s disease
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life.
- Challenges in planning, solving problems, and a struggle to organise information, as well as steps in the correct order.
- Difficulty completing familiar routine tasks like driving, turning off household appliances, eating, bathing, and brushing teeth.
- Vision problems and spatial relationship difficulties.
- Changes in mood and personality. Emotions (confused, suspicious, sad, fearful or anxious) can make it challenging to cope.
- Changes in sense of smell and taste.
