World Alzheimer’s Day: Understanding the Silent Dangers of Alzheimer’s Disease

September 21st of every year is World Alzheimer’s Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, a common cause of dementia that affects millions of people worldwide.

Alzheimer’s disease is a serious health problem that affects more than 600,000-700,000 people in Thailand alone. It is estimated that there are 55 million people living with Alzheimer’s disease worldwide, and the number of cases is increasing every year.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is caused by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain, including beta-amyloid and tau proteins, which lead to the death of brain cells and a decline in cognitive function.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases. It is a progressive disease that affects memory, thinking, and behavior, and is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain.

Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease

There are several risk factors that can increase a person’s chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease, including:

• Age: The risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 65.
• Family history: Having a family history of Alzheimer’s disease can increase a person’s risk of developing the disease.
• Genetics: Certain genetic mutations can increase a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, can increase a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
• Lifestyle factors: A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and lack of social engagement can increase a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Memory loss: Forgetting recent events, conversations, or learning new information.
• Communication problems: Difficulty finding the right words, following conversations, or understanding written or spoken language.
• Mood changes: Becoming easily agitated, anxious, or depressed.
• Personality changes: Becoming passive, suspicious, or withdrawn.
• Disorientation: Difficulty understanding the time, date, or location.
• Motor function problems: Difficulty with coordination, balance, or movement.

Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease can be divided into three stages:

1. Early-stage Alzheimer’s disease: This stage is characterized by mild cognitive decline, with symptoms such as memory loss and difficulty with communication.
2. Moderate-stage Alzheimer’s disease: This stage is characterized by moderate cognitive decline, with symptoms such as difficulty with daily activities, mood changes, and personality changes.
3. Late-stage Alzheimer’s disease: This stage is characterized by severe cognitive decline, with symptoms such as difficulty with speech, movement, and swallowing.

Recreational Activities that Can Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

Research has shown that engaging in recreational activities can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. These activities include:

• Brain training activities: Activities such as reading, puzzles, and learning new skills can help build cognitive reserve and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Physical activity: Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by improving cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation.
• Social activity: Engaging in social activities, such as volunteering or joining a club, can help build social connections and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease, we can take steps to prevent or slow its progression. Engaging in recreational activities, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying socially engaged can all help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Source: BDMS Wellness Clinic, Public Relations Department, Alzheimer’s Disease International