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Every year on September 21, we celebrate World Alzheimer's Day. It is a worldwide effort to bring attention to Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. Today presents an opportunity to spread awareness about Alzheimer's, support individuals impacted by the disease, and promote policy reforms that can enhance the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer's. On World Alzheimer's Day 2024, it's crucial to reflect on the advancements achieved, the unresolved issues, and the necessary actions to combat this debilitating disease.
Alzheimer's Disease: What is it?
Alzheimer's is a degenerative neurologic disease that progresses to destroy memory, thinking, and behaviour. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60–80% of cases. The vast majority of those afflicted with Alzheimer's are older adults, though it does occur in younger people under the age of 65.
It therefore consists of the complete aggregation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, which interfere with neural communication and cause the death of brain cells. Prolonged effects include brain shrinkage and, over time, a critical decline in various cognitive functions, which makes everyday activities difficult for the affected.
Theme for Alzheimer's Day 2024: "Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer's."
This year's theme, "Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer's," is quite fitting, as this day becomes even more relevant in raising awareness and building proper understanding of these debilitating conditions. We will be working against stigma, supporting those affected, and advocating for research to find a cure—all by continuing to educate ourselves on dementia and Alzheimer's disease. This encourages everyone to learn more about these diseases' symptoms, causes, and treatments in order to live with greater compassion and knowledge.
Symptoms and Stages of Alzheimer's Disease
Preclinical Stage: There are no noticeable symptoms, but brain changes can be detected using advanced imaging techniques.
Mild cognitive impairment: A slight but noticeable and measurable decline in cognitive abilities, including memory and thinking skills.
Mild Alzheimer's Disease: memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language, mood and personality changes, and difficulty carrying out everyday activities.
Modest Alzheimer's Disease: More loss of memory, confusion, problem in recognizing family and friends, difficulty in language and processing of thought, and behavior-related problems.
Severe Alzheimer's Disease: inability to talk sensibly, need for full-time care, loss of physical abilities, and finally, loss of consciousness.
Alzheimer's disease's global burden
One of the growing global health crises is Alzheimer's. The World Health Organization reports that dementia affects over 55 million people worldwide. The leading cause of dementia is actually Alzheimer's. We expect that number to triple by 2050 as the global population ages.
The impact of Alzheimer's disease extends beyond the affected person. Caregivers—usually immediate family members—face heavy emotional, physical, and financial burdens. Many caregivers also exhibit high levels of stress, depression, and isolation, again underscoring an urgent need to offer them better systems of support and resources.
Importance of World Alzheimer's Day
Awareness and enlightenment: It is the world's leading cause of dementia, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, many people still lack understanding of the disease, its symptoms, and its impact on patients. World Alzheimer's Day raises necessary awareness about the condition, emphasizing the importance of recognizing its early signs for prompt diagnosis and intervention.
Combating Stigma: Misconceptions and stigma are often associated with Alzheimer's and other dementias. These misconceptions can lead to feelings of isolation and discrimination towards those affected by the disease. World Alzheimer's Day envisions education and understanding, which are essential to reduce stigma and support the living sufferers and their caregivers.
Supporting Research: The day also aims to underscore the importance of research in finding a cure and developing effective treatment options. World Alzheimer's Day contributes greatly to scientific progress by highlighting ongoing research and encouraging donations and support.
Encouragement of International Cooperation: No borders or boundaries restrict the vengeance of Alzheimer's disease, and therefore, its challenge requires an integrated global approach. World Alzheimer's Day encourages international dialogue, where countries can share knowledge, resources, and strategies to deal with the disease more effectively.
Caregivers Empowerment: Caregivers are crucial agents in the lives of people suffering from Alzheimer's disease. The work they carry out renders them under much emotional, physical, and financial stress. World Alzheimer's Day recognizes their contributions, providing them with the necessary support, equipping them with ways of handling their duties lightly, and creating time for self-care.
World Alzheimer's Day 2024 serves as a reminder that the disease affects millions of people worldwide and that immediate action is required. Raising knowledge, funding studies, and pushing for policy changes can all help us get better care, a better quality of life, and a fix. Let's promise to help those who are affected, learn more about Alzheimer's, and work together to make the world a better place so that Alzheimer's isn't such a scary condition.
