BTN News: Diana Withrow, Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month in June focuses on the increasing prevalence and impact of Alzheimer’s disease. The U.S. has some 500,000 new cases of Alzheimer’s each year, a number that could double by 2050. Between 2001 and 2021, Alzheimer’s-related deaths have increased by 141%. Because this is a progressive disease associated with substantial challenges for patients and families, early identification and preventive measures are essential.
Recognizing the Signs
If a home-owning teacher was seen writing copious notes, or if they turned up late or early for a planned family dinner party. Typically, they then make an about-face halfway to a point of destination to which they had not intended to go. These examples explain more than simply forgetfulness. Those in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or other dementia are often confused and have memory loss that affects their ability to perform familiar tasks, Dr. Jonathan Walters (MASSA) medical director said.
This includes forgetting names, getting lost in familiar places, and losing items frequently. The signs might be “I know,” as opposed to clear, concise responses. At the beginning, Alzheimer´s is even more cruel for the sufferer because normally he or she knows about those differences. And as the disease developed, so did the burden on family members living with the unusual and personality changes of someone they loved.
The Diagnosis Process
An Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be complex because it must be differentiated from other diseases that cause dementia — including brain masses, PD and Lewy Body Dementia. Not all dementia is Alzheimer’s, Dr. The diagnostic processes include in-office evaluation of mental status, clinical assessment of symptoms, and occasionally imaging and blood tests. Despite many years of research the exact cause of Alzheimer’s is yet to be known, however it is associated with accumulations of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain that results in death of cells and cognitive degeneration.
Early Prevention is Key
Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, early intervention can help to slow the disease’s progression. Dr. Walters recommends staying active to stave off the possibility of getting dementia. A little exercise like 20 – 30 min walk or cycling or aqua therapy practice can improve stamina and cognitive health. Brain teasers, puzzles, and new tasks can all help the brain become more active again and not smoking or drinking too much alcohol or using any type of drugs would also play a big role in brain health.
It is crucial to keep blood sugar levels and blood pressure in check and have a healthy diet. In addition, dementias may be hereditary, meaning some types of dementia tend to run in families.
Health Care staff
This is further strained by the fact that access to care for those with dementia is also on the decline – a situation which some states are expected to have fewer than 10 neurologists per 10,000 dementia patients by 2025. This service gap highlights the need of preventive measures and early diagnosis. For patients experiencing cognitive changes (memory, personality), appropriate referrals to neurologists or mental health professionals may be necessary after consultation with their primary care physicians.
Dr. Walters said that it is important for people to know not all changes in personality or memory changes are due to dementia. People with dementia do not have good judgment as a notable feature of the disease, but depression, anxiety, isolation or infections can make you appear like you are in care. Working with and developing a relationship with a PCP can help distinguish these nuances, leading to the most appropriate care.
Seeking Help and Resources
While Alzheimer’s presents many challenges, there is support and help available for people with the disease. Treatment available from national organizations but there is no cure for it. Remember, it starts with help and self caring as we continue our journey to tackle this progressive illness.
