World Alzheimer's Day, 2024

World Alzheimer's Day is observed on September 21st yearly to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease (AD). The theme of World Alzheimer's Day 2024 is Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer's.

This year's theme is the same as 2024, but it focuses especially on post-diagnosis support.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is responsible for 60-70% of dementia cases, and the numbers are expected to grow in the coming decades. Neurodegenerative diseases usually begin slowly and worsen over time. Unfortunately, Alzheimer's disease cannot be reversed; however, with increased awareness, patients' families can learn to manage the condition.

What is Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common form of dementia among older adults. Dementia is a brain disorder involving loss of mental functions that seriously affects daily life and activities. It impacts human memory power, thinking skills, and the ability to perform the most basic tasks.

Some of the symptoms of AD are:

• The patient forgets the names of places and struggles to recognize family members and long-time friends.
• Language problems, disorientation (including easily getting lost), mood swings, loss of motivation, self-neglect, and behavioural issues can all occur a the disease progresses.
• Asking questions repeatedly
• Poor judgments and finding it hard to make decisions.
• Get lost in their area or surroundings
• Easily misplace items
• Disturbed sleep
• Difficulty eating and swallowing (dysphagia)
• Difficulty to move around without support or assistance.
• Have difficulty identifying objects, expressing thoughts, or participating in conversations?
• Forget about conversations, appointments, and events and won't recall them later.

Medications may temporarily improve or slow Alzheimer's symptoms. Various therapy programs are available to help people with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

The cause of the disease is unknown, but it involves abnormal brain proteins, leading to neuron damage and death. Alzheimer's is influenced by genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors, and there is currently no permanent treatment.

What are The Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease?

The risk factors that can cause this neurologic disorder include:

• Old age
• Hereditary
• Down's syndrome
• Head injuries
• Cardiovascular disease
• Physical inactivity
• Smoking
• Air pollution
• Untreated depression

The Significance of World Alzheimer's Day

The risk factors that can cause this neurologic disorder include:

• This day unites people worldwide to fight Alzheimer's and dementia.
• Everyone, including patients, caregivers, researchers, and medical professionals, gather to share their experiences regarding the disease.
• Alzheimer's Day raises awareness about valuable education by focusing on a specific theme every year.
• The theme helps solve common misconceptions about neurologic disorders.
• It also allows organizations to be recognized for their outstanding work in this field and helps them achieve their goals.

Conclusion

This World Alzheimer's Day aims to raise awareness and reach out to people who need guidance and support. By spreading awareness and educating people, we can help people suffering from this neurologic disorder to lead a manageable and enjoyable life.

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