June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and the article below is one of several this month to educate the public about these important topics.
Alzheimer’s is a complex disease that affects millions of people around the world, yet there are still many misconceptions about it. To help dispel these myths, here are five key facts about Alzheimer’s.
Progressive Brain Damage: Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually interfering with daily tasks and activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 62% of dementia cases in Jamaica. Dementia is a term used to describe a set of symptoms associated with impaired thinking skills.
Risk Factors and Age: Age is the biggest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, but it is not a normal change with age. Most people with Alzheimer’s disease are over 65 years old, but younger people can also develop Alzheimer’s, which is called early-onset Alzheimer’s. Other risk factors include genetics, family history, history of traumatic brain injury, and certain lifestyle factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, an unhealthy diet, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Symptoms and Warning Signs: In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, people often experience subtle changes in memory and thinking, such as forgetting recent conversations or events, difficulty solving problems, and disorientation to time or place. As the disease progresses, symptoms worsen and can lead to severe memory loss, disorientation and behavioral and personality changes.
No cure, but treatable: Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Medications such as donepezil, galantamine, and rivastigmine may temporarily slow the progression of symptoms or reduce certain cognitive and behavioral problems. Additionally, non-drug interventions such as cognitive stimulation therapy, exercise, and social engagement can also be effective. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease, but the rate of progression varies from person to person.
Impact on families and caregivers: Alzheimer’s not only affects the individual diagnosed with the disease, it also has a significant impact on their family and caregivers. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be mentally and physically taxing and often requires round-the-clock help and support. It is essential for caregivers to prioritize self-care and seek help from medical professionals and support networks.
By raising awareness and understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, we can work towards better support, earlier detection and improved treatment for those suffering from this devastating disease. If you or someone you know is experiencing memory loss or other symptoms of cognitive decline, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional for assessment and support.
Robiann Broomfield is currently completing her PhD in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology. She has also completed a clinical residency in Rehabilitation Psychology and Neuropsychology at Baylor College of Medicine/TIRR Memorial Hermann Hospital. In September, she will begin a fellowship in Neuropsychology at Harvard Medical School.
