Every November, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month sheds light on the neurological disease that has affected over 1 million people diagnosed each year.
Families worldwide experience various struggles and have to handle difficult decisions when caring for their loved ones.
The quality of life is put at the hands of the caregiver, making profound changes in daily routine while adjusting to new responsibilities.
Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive brain disorder that causes memory loss, confusion and cognitive decline.
Patients with this neurological disorder experience difficulty in daily tasks and communication frictioning against memory lapses.
“The damage to brain cells causes a more severe and more rapid decline in function, along with significant changes in personality and mood that isn’t seen with normal aging,” said Sports Neurology Director Vernon B. Williams at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
Many question if Alzheimer’s can be prevented, and what lifestyle factors may contribute to the progression of this disease.
“Neurodegenerative disorders go along with making healthy habits, as simple as a good diet, stress reduction and good sleep all play into effect,” Neurosurgeon Juan Jimenez of Riverside Medical Center stated.
Though many assume that this disease is associated with old age, Alzheimer’s can be detected as early as your 40s.
Prevention starts with our daily choices while taking note of the little things we tend to look over. However, progress against this disease also depends on participation in research.
Jimenez mentions “being aware of different research trials out there and getting involved in programs primarily in academic institutions is extremely important. As they can establish the diagnosis, contributing with data and demographics to help determine the ideology and potential treatment options.”
This month is important to raise an understanding of this disease, while lending a helping hand to those in need of support.
This topic can be hard to grasp, and emotionally painful as this condition affects everyone differently.
“Finding support in talking to other family members, friends, or even support groups can make a big difference,” Mary Salehpour, caregiver of a loved one with Alzheimer’s, said.
Helping as a caregiver becomes centered around their loved ones’ needs, making sure they are fed, clean and comfortable.
Alzheimer’s changes behavior and memory but it doesn’t take away from the person’s needs to be loved and respected. It is so important to be their voice, especially in care facilities and hospitals.
Salehpour stressed “you must fight for their dignity and care when they can no longer speak or advocate for themselves.”
Having a loved one with Alzheimer’s, can also take a toll on one’s own mental health as well as physical needs, Salehpour highlights that “rest, proper nutrition, and small breaks are necessary to prevent burnout.”
Being a caregiver is a 24-hour responsibility that requires patience and commitment.
Living through this experience teaches people to let go of their frustration and live in the present moment, as they must find a routine that’s best fit for the caregiver and their patient.
Alzheimer’s disease shows the world how fragile and dominant the human brain is.
Raising awareness about this disease is not just about understanding memory loss, it’s centered around recognizing the people behind the diagnosis.
Through the insights of doctors and caregivers, it’s clear that awareness can lead to better care, and hope for a better future.
The more we talk, learn, and act, the closer we get to breaking the stereotype surrounding Alzheimer’s.