Understanding Alzheimer’s
Dementia is an area that is often misunderstood and the words Alzheimer’s Disease can be met with fear, denial and shock. The Alzheimer Society of Ireland sets out to clarify the area of dementia and dispel the myths and misinformation commonly associated with this disorder.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe the symptoms of many different conditions which damage brain cells and lead to a loss of brain function over time. Dementia is progressive, which means the symptoms will get worse over time. It can affect a person’s memory and their ability to carry out everyday activities (such a brushing teeth, or using a washing machine), make decisions, understand information and express themselves. The rate of progression can vary from person to person, with each individual having their own unique experience of dementia. Dementia may also affect a person's mood and personality and can have a life changing physical, emotional and mental impact on the affected person and those close to them. Other symptoms of dementia include confusion, wandering, unusual behavior, agitation and aggression, all which can be frightening, stressful and isolating for the person affected and those close to them.
Where does Alzheimer’s disease fit in to this?
As mentioned, dementia is an umbrella term used to describe symptoms of many conditions which damage brain cells, and Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It is named after the German psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer who first described the disease in 1906. The second most common type is vascular dementia (caused by problems with blood supply to the brain, and can occur after a stroke) followed by lesser common forms which include Lewy body dementia and Frontotemporal Dementia.
How many people have dementia?
· Dementia affects almost 44,000 people in Ireland and touches the lives of 50,000 carers and hundreds of thousands of family members.
· Worldwide, there are an estimated 30 million people with dementia.
· As the population is living longer, it is projected that within 20 years the numbers of people affected in Ireland will double and by 2036 over 100,000 people will be affected.
· Dementia affects approximately one in 20 of people aged over 65 years.
· It affects one in four people over the age of 80
· While it is comparatively rare, dementia can affect younger people. There are approximately 4,000 people under the age of 65 with Younger Onset Dementia in the Ireland.
Is there a cure for Dementia?
While research is ongoing worldwide, at present there is no cure for dementia. However some medication can help slow down the progress of the disease, for a certain amount of time.
Am I at risk?
There are certain risks associated with dementia, however many people can develop dementia without having any risk factors. Risk factors include
Age: Age is a significant risk factor for developing dementia (and unfortunately many other illnesses). The risk increases, the older we get. However, that is not to say dementia is a natural part of aging. Many people live into their 80’s and beyond and do not develop dementia.
Lifestyle: Mounting research suggests that a healthy lifestyle is associated with a lower risk of dementia. This is especially true for vascular dementia which can follow a stroke.
Factors which have been found to reduce risk of dementia include;
· Brain activity. – Stimulating and challenging the brain with complex mental activities has been associated with lower levels of dementia. This can include gardening, crosswords, board/card games, cooking or yoga.
· Social Activity - Being more socially active is associated with a reduced risk of dementia. People who participate in more social activities, have larger networks of friends and who feel less lonely have on average a lower risk of developing dementia. Ways to increase your social activity include, joining a club, enrolling in a course or volunteering with a charity, or simply making the effort to meet up with, or call family and friends more regularly.
· Other current research suggests that being physically active, eating a healthy diet, not smoking, drinking in moderation and having your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly are all associated with a lower risk of dementia.
· Head injury - A history of serious head injury, especially with loss of consciousness, is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. That doesn’t mean that everyone who injures their head will get dementia, just that they are at a slightly higher risk on average.
Family history: The role of genetics in the development of dementia is not yet fully understood. There has been some progress in this area and certain genes have been identified as playing a part in the development of different types of dementia. However, people with this gene have not developed dementia and people who do not have it, have developed the condition. Therefore, it is an area that warrants further research. If you are concerned about having a family history of dementia, please speak to your GP who can refer you to a genetic specialist.
I’m worried about my memory. What should I do?
Many people worry about changes in their memory. It can be hard to know what to do or who to talk to. If you are worried about your memory, then you should talk to your doctor without delay. You may find it helpful to talk to a trusted loved one before your visit, ask them if they have noticed any changes. You could also ask them to come with you to your doctor. Some people may feel frightened or embarrassed, but talking to your doctor could make all the difference.
You should especially visit your Dr if you,
- Feel your memory has changed significantly or rapidly
- Forget the names of friends or everyday objects regularly
- Find it hard to follow conversations or television programmes
- Notice that you regularly repeat yourself or lose your train of thought when speaking
- Find managing money or everyday tasks increasingly difficult
- Find it hard to remember things you have seen, read or heard
- Feel anxious, angry or frustrated by the changes you are experiencing.
It’s important to remember that there are many possible reasons for memory loss and confusion - all which require appropriate intervention. These include
Anxiety and stress, particularly following a bereavement
- Depression
- An infection such as a chest or bladder infection
- Thyroid disorders
- Vitamin deficiency
- Side effects of some medications
- Long term overuse of alcohol
- Conditions such as mild cognitive impairment or a stroke
- Dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease.
If there’s still no cure, what’s the point in getting a diagnosis?
Getting an early diagnosis is very important for the person with dementia and their loved ones. One international study found that 85% of respondents would prefer to know if they had Alzheimer’s Disease or another type of dementia if they were experiencing confusion or memory loss. It found that 94% would want the same if a family member were experiencing the symptoms.
Getting a early diagnosis means
· You can access appropriate treatments (which may help slow down the progression of the disease), services and supports
· You can plan your legal and financial affairs.
· And make decisions about your future care.
Alzheimer Society of Ireland
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is the leading charity in Ireland, that provides dementia specific services.
The Society was founded in 1982 by a small group of people who were caring for a family member with Alzheimer's Disease or a related dementia. Next year will be its 30th birthday.
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland's Vision is:
To promote a world free of Alzheimer's disease / dementia and ensure that those with the condition and their carers occupy their rightful place in society, are respected and understood and have fulfilling lives.
Mission of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland is
to advocate the rights and meet the needs of people with dementia and those who care for them.
The Society has a number of nationwide services for people with dementia and their loved ones. These include, day care centres, home care, respite care, support groups, social clubs and our National Helpline Service.
Our free confidential National Helpline 1800 341 341 is open from 10am-4pm Monday to Friday and is operated by a team of committed and trained volunteers. It offers information, support and a listening ear to people with dementia and their loved ones.
Other key areas of work include research, public awareness raising, addressing stigma and political lobbying to improve services and investment in dementia care. This year, the newly elected government has committed itself to developing a National Dementia Strategy in order to ensure a more coordinated approach to supporting people to live with dementia. This is a very positive step towards recognizing the impact that dementia has on people and the need to support them on their journey. Many other countries in Europe and across the world have such plans in place.
If you are worried about memory loss or changes in behavior, are affected by dementia or would like more information
· Please call the Alzheimer National Helpline at 1800 341 341 Monday-Friday 10am-4pm or view
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