Hemant, an energetic and compassionate 15-year-old, has become a pillar of support for his grandfather, who has been battling Alzheimer's for five years. About four years ago Hemant and his parents noticed that his grandpa, who he lovingly calls “Dadu”, was beginning to forget recent events and conversations. Concerned, they sought medical help, only to discover that “Dadu” was suffering from Alzheimer's, a leading cause of dementia.
Despite the diagnosis, Hemant and his parents resolved to keep “Dadu” motivated and never give up on him. While he is currently on medication, they understand there is no cure for the disease. However, Hemant remains unwavering in his commitment to be there for his grandfather, just as “Dadu” was there for him during his childhood.
In honour of his grandfather and to raise awareness, Hemant has been a major participant in the annual celebrations of World Alzheimer's Awareness Day on September 21st.
Long ago, in 1906, German physician Dr. Alois Alzheimer described the condition of the brain that we today know as “Alzheimer's disease.” To raise awareness, educate people about Alzheimer's, and overcome the stigma of this disease, World Alzheimer's Day is celebrated on 21 September every year. It is a date that tells us about the sufferings and struggles of people dealing with Alzheimer's disease.
AD, or Alzheimer's, is a disease that affects brain health and leads to loss of memory and the ability to make decisions and judge. Alzheimer's is also one of the most common reasons leading to dementia. People above 65 years or 85 years of age are most affected with Alzheimer's. Research in this regard is still ongoing, and scientists are constantly trying to find ways to delay the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and find a prevention and cure for the same. However, to discover a cure, it is first quintessential to understand the underlying cause of the problem!
The exact cause of Alzheimer's remains unknown. The treatment for the same is yet to be discovered. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease that usually worsens over time. It is a disease that interferes with the cognitive skills and learning of the brain. As a result, the patient may tend to forget recent memories and events. Over time, the situation may worsen to an extent where the person may find it challenging to do daily activities due to memory loss.
Alzheimer's research shows people with Alzheimer's have plaques and tangles in their brains. The exact role these play in Alzheimer's is yet uncertain. However, the plaques and tangles are believed to disturb communication between nerve cells. Building amyloid and tau protein in the brain also begins. As a result, nerve cells gradually die, causing irreversible brain damage. Since the brain has over 100 billion nerve cells, maintaining proper functioning is only possible when these cells are alive and healthy. Destruction of nerve cells causes memory loss, confusion, and various other symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer's has various stages. It is believed by the time the first symptom of Alzheimer’s appears; the disease has been present for over ten years. This means the person may have been suffering from the disease for over ten years without knowing it. Some of the common symptoms of Alzheimer’s include:
These symptoms occur during mild to moderate stages of Alzheimer’s. In advanced conditions, the following symptoms may be evident:
Beyond this stage, the person may experience extreme symptoms that may lead to injuries, difficulty living peacefully, and may even lead to death. These symptoms include:
In such conditions, seeking help from professional caregivers at home can be a great solution. Families can also help ensure older adults are safe and comfortable and do not injure themselves.
No. Alzheimer's and dementia are not the same diseases. Alzheimer's is a leading cause of dementia. Around 70% of patients who have dementia are also fighting against Alzheimer's. Dementia is a common term for multiple diseases that lead to cognitive decline and memory loss problems.
Various Alzheimer's associations are constantly trying to pull out the stigma against Alzheimer's and raise awareness regarding the same. Alzheimer's or dementia awareness is critical as negatively labelling Alzheimer's patients may further make the condition difficult for them.
At first, people need to understand that Alzheimer's is not typical and is not okay. Seeking medical attention is a must. Further, it is essential to ensure the safety, comfort, and care of people who have Alzheimer's. Remember, they are the same people who have invested in our safety for decades. So, now is the payback time.
Some of the basic steps are talking openly about Alzheimer's, raising awareness on World Alzheimer's Day, educating people about the disease, and other essential steps towards progress. You may also join an Alzheimer's Foundation to contribute on a larger scale!
Alzheimer's has a possibility of affecting people of different age groups. However, most cases occur in people who are 65 or older. Early-onset Alzheimer's that affects people below the age of 60 years is relatively rare. As you age, the risks of Alzheimer’s increase. However, you must note that Alzheimer's or dementia is not a normal process of ageing. In any case, seeking medical attention is the best idea. Leaving Alzheimer's untreated can cause multiple problems for the person.
This World Alzheimer's Day, make a will to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease. Educating people about this disease, its causes, the struggles of Alzheimer’s patients, and more can be quite helpful. If someone around you or in your family is struggling with Alzheimer's or dementia, make sure to make it an easy battle for them!
Talking to patients with Alzheimer’s about how they feel and what they are thinking and being open about their condition can be very helpful. Being there with them in such a difficult time can be the best act of humanity and care. Getting health insurance coverage for Alzheimer's can further help cover medical expenses so one can access uncompromised medical care!
Critical Mediclaim Health Insurance urges you to take a step forward this World Alzheimer's Day by breaking the stigma against the disease and raising awareness! At the same time, we highly recommend our fixed benefit Care Mediclaim Policy that helps you manage Alzheimer’s along with 31 other critical illnesses.
>> Also Read: Critical Illness Insurance: What Is It and Who Needs It?
Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.
Published on 4 Nov 2024
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