Imagine waking up one day and not recognizing your children, or home. Imagine the faces of your loved ones becoming blurred in your memory and familiar tasks like brushing your teeth being difficult. You are losing a piece of yourself every day, memories fading like an old photograph. This is the reality for millions of people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s disease.
On World Alzheimer’s Day, let us come together to honor those affected by this disease by understanding and supporting them.
Understanding Alzheimer’s disease
The Mental Health toll
Alzheimer’s damages brain cells and affects their normal function. Symptoms commonly begin with mild memory loss, such as forgetting names or recent events. As it progresses, people may have trouble with language, problem solving and coordination. Eventually, this can affect your functioning and behavior tremendously.
Emotional distress
As Alzheimer’s progresses, people have trouble in problem-solving. This can cause frustration, confusion, and anxiety. Alzheimer’s can lead to changes in behaviour, such as agitation, aggression, or wandering. This can be difficult for caregivers to manage and can contribute to emotional stress.
Social isolation
As communication and social skills become more challenging, people may feel lonely and isolated.
Raising Awareness
Raising awareness about Alzheimer’s is important for breaking down stigma and supporting early diagnosis. By understanding the symptoms and risk factors, people can seek help sooner and improve their quality of life.
Supporting Those Affected by Alzheimer’s
- Education: Providing education and training to caregivers can help them to provide better care.
- Support: Connecting with support groups can offer emotional support and practical advice.
World Alzheimer’s Day is a reminder of the importance of understanding and supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. By working together, we can make a difference in the lives of millions of people around the world.
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