KOCHI: Dealing with dementia is not an easy task, neither for the patients nor for the caregivers. Ciby Varghese, from Pathanamthitta, has been caring for her father Paulose K P, aged 72, an Alzheimer’s patient, for around three years. Every day is a new challenge. However, she was able to detect memory disorders in her father at an early stage, so the journey has not been that rough. 

On World Alzheimer’s Day today, experts emphasize on the significance of raising awareness and identifying the symptoms early. The theme for the day this year is ‘Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s’.

It is known that a complete reversal from Alzheimer’s is not possible, but seeking medical care at the onset of symptoms can help control sudden deterioration of the condition. Dr Bindu B, senior consultant neurologist at Lisie Hospital, Kochi, stated that among the several symptoms, asking questions repeatedly and losing sense of daily tasks are cause for concern. Rather than labelling all such symptoms as age-related, there is a need to understand when to seek medical help. It is also vital to evaluate the actual reasons for the behavioral changes. The progression of the disease can be controlled with timely intervention.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenging time for dementia patients. There has been a drop in the number of patients with dementia-related symptoms coming to the hospitals during the pandemic; however, clinicians are not sure if it is a boon. It will take another year to determine that, they say.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dementia currently affects over five crore people across the globe, with around one crore new cases each year. Among individuals aged above 60, around 5-8% have dementia. Alzheimer’s accounts for 60-70% of the cases. 

Early signs of Alzheimer’s include gradual decline of memory, disorientation and difficulty in preforming activities of daily living. Dr Sunesh E R, neurologist at Rajagiri Hospital, stated that age is a high-risk factor and Kerala has a high elderly population. The caregivers need to receive proper training and a social care team that includes psychologists and neurologists must be formed district-wise for people dealing with Alzheimer’s. 

Source: The New Indian Express