World Alzheimer's Day

Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disorder. It slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. Eventually, a person will lose the ability to carry out simple tasks, meaning they lose their independence. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. It is not a normal part of ageing, but the chance of developing this disease increases as we get older. Most people with Alzheimer's are aged over 65, however Alzheimer’s can also affect younger people, with at least 3 out of 100 people in the UK being under 65.

World Alzheimer's Day is a global opportunity to raise awareness and educate people of the challenges that surround this disease, whilst also providing support to those diagnosed and the loved ones caring for them.

Early symptoms of Alzheimer’s may include:

• Memory loss - forgetting recent events, names, faces

• Repetition - repeating the same question or behaviours

• Misplacing things - misplacing items or putting them in odd places

• Confusion - not being sure of the date or time of day

• Disorientation - unsure of their whereabouts or getting lost

• Language - problems finding the right words or understanding words

• Mood and behaviour - low in mood, anxious or agitated

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means symptoms will get worse over time, the speed of this will vary from from person to person.

Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease as early as possible means you can get the right support and treatments, and plan for the future. If you are worried that you are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease you should talk to your GP. The treatments may help manage symptoms for a time, although they do not slow or stop the underlying disease from getting worse.

There are various ways that you can support people living with Alzheimer's and their families:

1. Be patient and understanding, when struggling with everyday tasks offer help where needed.

2. Encourage social interaction, isolation can often worsen dementia symptoms.

3. Maintain a routine, this can help to reduce the confusion and anxiety that people with Alzheimer's feel.

4. Adapt the environment to make it safe and dementia-friendly, removing hazards and using signs to show where things are.

5. Promote physical and mental stimulation with exercise and mental activities.

6. Connect with local support groups, healthcare professionals, and organisations that offer information, advice, and services for people living with Alzheimer's and their families.