World Alzheimer’s Day is observed across the globe on September 21, to inculcate awareness and knowledge amongst the general public, about the incapacitating ailment. Alzheimer’s Disease is a neurodegenerative condition characterised by a substantial decrease in the size of the brain, due to atrophy i.e. damage and destruction of neuronal cells and tissues. It invariably gives rise to memory loss, along with a decline in cognitive functions of thinking, and intelligence, thereby inciting a state of mental confusion. Also referred to as senile dementia or simply dementia, Alzheimer’s usually develops in elderly people above the age of 60 but can occur in younger individuals as well.
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The worldwide association – Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), works closely with the World Health Organization (WHO), to coordinate numerous key campaigns on World Alzheimer’s Day. The ADI holds the primary objective to reduce the risk, ensure precise prompt diagnosis, improve healthcare measures, societal inclusion of patients and find an effective cure for Alzheimer’s in the future.
The theme for World Alzheimer’s Day 2024 is “Time to act on dementia”, Time to act on Alzheimer’s”, which underscores thoughts towards dementia and seeks to amend the stigma and discrimination that still prevails around this neurodegenerative condition. This health day also focuses on the positive steps being taken by organisations and governments across the globe to create a more dementia-friendly society.
The Importance of World Alzheimer's Day
Raising Awareness:
Alzheimer's disease often progresses very silently in its early stages. Many people dismiss initial symptoms as part of normal aging, delaying diagnosis and treatment. World Alzheimer’s Day brings the disease into the spotlight, encouraging conversations about recognizing early signs, seeking medical advice, and supporting those affected. It also sheds light on the stigma and misconceptions surrounding the disease.
Early Detection
Early diagnosis can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. It allows for better management of symptoms, access to support services, and involvement in decision-making regarding future care
Research and Innovation
World Alzheimer’s Day is also a time to promote and fund research aimed at understanding the causes of Alzheimer’s and discovering new treatments. This day highlights the importance of ongoing scientific efforts to delay or prevent the disease through advances in medical technology and lifestyle changes.
Supporting Caregivers
Taking care of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s can be both physically and emotionally taxing. This health event recognizes the essential role of caregivers and advocates for better resources, training, and respite care to support their well-being.
Promoting Brain Health
Alzheimer’s is a multifactorial disease with risk factors such as genetics, ageing, and lifestyle choices playing a part. This health event encourages Alzheimer’s patients to take proactive measures to augment their brain health and function. This includes eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, engaging in mental exercises, managing stress, and maintaining social connections.
Also Read: Dementia: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
While it is important to stay abreast of vital details regarding Alzheimer’s symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, it is equally crucial to stop the spread of misinformation, to ensure that only truthful knowledge is disseminated among people and also banish any stigma linked with the memory-impairing illness. Here are some myths surrounding dementia, clarified with the pertinent facts.
General Myths And Relevant Facts About Alzheimer’s/Dementia:
Myth #1:
A person will definitely develop Alzheimer’s disease if either one or both parents suffer from the condition
Fact:
This is incorrect. While certain genetic mutations existing in the parents may be passed on to the child which may increase their risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s, this does not happen in every case and hereditary features are not the only trigger factor. Lifestyle and environmental aspects like junk diet, chemical exposure, and lack of exercise also make a person more prone to dementia.
Myth #2:
Alzheimer’s only affects people over 60
Fact:
False. In the majority of cases, the initial stages of Alzheimer’s and subsequent dementia occur only at 60 years of age or older. However, doctors estimate that globally, between 5 – 10 per cent of Alzheimer’s happen in younger individuals in their 30s, 40s and 50s. This is termed early-onset Alzheimer’s.
Myth #3:
Frequently displaying forgetfulness implies Alzheimer’s disease
Fact:
Not true. As people grow older, it is common to experience fleeting bouts of absent-mindedness or short-term memory loss, such as forgetting about an appointment at work or where exactly the car keys were kept in the house. This does not automatically confirm that the individual has Alzheimer’s, since the indications of dementia are far more severe, such as forgetting close family members’ names, faces, or even their past, with grave memory impairments.
Myth #4:
Alzheimer’s disease can be prevented
Fact:
This statement is flawed. There are no known medical treatment methods to entirely avert the instance of Alzheimer’s. An individual can only take effective measures to lower the risk of contracting the ailment later on in life, such as consuming a balanced diet, ensuring ample sleep, regular physical activity, keeping blood pressure under control, maintaining a healthy body weight and protecting the head from injuries. Moreover, in the case of genetic aberrations, these inherited defects are beyond control and cannot be avoided.
Myth #5:
Flu shots increase the risk of Alzheimer’s
Fact:
This is completely erroneous. Flu shots help boost immunity against the viral infection – influenza and in reality, decrease the possibility of memory-related health problems in the later years.
(This article is reviewed by Preeti Sharma, Wellness Expert)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
https://www.alz.org/about/awareness-initiatives/world-alzheimers-day
https://www.paho.org/en/news/9-9-2024-world-alzheimers-month-2024-time-act-dementia
