Understanding Alzheimer’s and Facing it Together as One:
on this occasion of World Alzheimer’s Day!
Dr Deeksha Barman
MBBS
Junior Resident
Department of Neurology
Today, on World Alzheimer’s Day, we come together to raise awareness about a condition that touches millions of lives around the globe. As a junior resident doctor, I have seen firsthand how Alzheimer's disease affects not only the individuals diagnosed but also their families and caregivers. In this article, I will try to highlight the key aspects of this rather common disease—so that we as a community can come together to understand it better and treat the ones affected with this disease with compassion and kindness.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, which refers to a group of symptoms affecting cognitive function. While it is often seen in older adults, Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging. The condition progressively worsens, gradually interfering with daily life and independence.
How Common Is It?
Alzheimer's disease is a global health concern. According to recent estimates, more than 50 million people worldwide live with dementia, with Alzheimer's disease accounting for up to 60-70% of all cases. The risk of developing Alzheimer’s increases with age, affecting around 1 in 9 people aged 65 and older. By 2050, it is expected that this number could triple due to the aging global population.
What Are the Symptoms?
Alzheimer's usually starts slowly but worsens over time. Early symptoms may be subtle, often dismissed as forgetfulness or aging. Here are some common clinical features that should alert you about the possibility of the disease:
- Memory loss: Forgetting recently learned information or important dates- or maybe something as simple as forgetting your keys!
- Difficulty planning or solving problems: Struggling with tasks like following a recipe or paying bills.
- Confusion with time or place: Losing track of dates or becoming disoriented in familiar environments like getting lost in previously familiar neighborhoods.
- Problems with words: Difficulty joining conversations or finding the right words.
- Mood and personality changes: Becoming withdrawn, anxious, or unusually suspicious.
In later stages, individuals may lose the ability to carry on a conversation or recognize loved ones.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early suspicion and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is crucial for better management and planning. Recognizing the early signs allows individuals and families to seek medical help, access resources, and begin treatments that may slow the disease’s progression.
Your doctor may use a combination of methods to diagnose Alzheimer’s, including:
- History-taking and physical exams for clinical evaluation.
- Cognitive tests to assess memory, language, and problem-solving abilities.
- Brain scans like MRI or CT to rule out other conditions that may mimic as Alzheimer’s.
- In some cases, and higher specialty settings, they may also use newer tests like spinal fluid analysis that can help detect Alzheimer’s-related proteins.
What can be done after your diagnosis? What are the treatment options?
Unfortunately, it is sad but true that there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but the treatment options that we have aim to improve quality of life and manage symptoms. These include drugs like cholinesterase inhibitors e.g., donepezil, rivastigmine and memantine that can help manage symptoms, particularly in the early to moderate stages. Other modalities like cognitive therapies, physical exercise, and activities designed to stimulate the brain may help slow cognitive decline. As the disease progresses, care becomes more focused on comfort and ensuring safety. Caregivers play a critical role in providing day-to-day support.
There are a few latest FDA approved drugs like lecanemab (Leqembi®), aducanumab (Aduhelm®) and the most recently approved Kisunla™ (donanemab) that bring us hope for better management of the patients in the upcoming future.
What is the prognosis of this disease?
Alzheimer's disease is progressive; hence symptoms worsen over time. The progression rate can vary, but on average, people live 4 to 8 years after diagnosis. Some may live as long as 20 years, depending on factors like age, overall health, and care received. While the disease is not curable, early intervention and support can help slow progression and improve quality of life for many.
Social Impact: Alzheimer’s and the Family
Alzheimer’s does not just affect the individual—it also has a tremendous impact on families and caregivers. Watching a loved one slowly lose their independence and memory can be emotionally challenging. Many caregivers experience stress, anxiety, and even burnout.
Support groups, counseling, and respite care are essential resources for caregivers. It’s important for them to seek help and remember that they are not alone in this journey.
Conclusion
On this World Alzheimer’s Day, we must remember that Alzheimer’s is not just a medical condition—it’s a human story of loss, courage, and resilience. Raising awareness about the disease, supporting research efforts, and providing resources to those affected is key to making a difference in the lives of millions. Together, as a community, we can work toward a more compassionate approach to those living with Alzheimer’s disease. Let us stand in solidarity with patients and their families, offering hope, support, and understanding. By acknowledging Alzheimer's disease and learning about it, we take the first step in helping those affected live with dignity and love.
Dr Deeksha Barman
MBBS
Junior Resident
Department of Neurology
Kins Institute of Neurosciences
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