Alzheimer’s is one of the causes of dementia with the highest incidence in the world and one of the main disabling conditions in older adults. It is a degenerative and progressive neurological disease that mainly, but not exclusively, affects seniors.
As the population ages and life expectancy increases, the number of people with dementia increases. In 2015, there were 46.8 million people in the world living with dementia, it is estimated that by 2050, this number will reach 131.5 million.
Here are the four things that are important to know about Alzheimer’s:
- Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia
Dementia is a term used to refer to a syndrome that affects brain structures and functions causing progressive deterioration in one or more mental functions and is usually accompanied by changes in behavior and mood, impacting people’s ability to perform daily activities independently. - Alzheimer’s effects
- Not remembering recent events: having the need for things to be repeated.
- Difficulty performing daily activities: such as the steps of a cooking recipe, driving a car, among others.
- Language disorders: difficulties finding words or using them incorrectly.
- Disorientation: difficulty remembering the date or getting lost in familiar places.
- Lapse in judgment: making inappropriate use of money, not wearing appropriate clothes, among others.
- Trouble keeping sequence: not following a conversation.
- Loss of initiative: being excessively passive, sleeping more than usual, losing interest in recreational activities.
- Withdrawal from social activities: personality and mood changes.
- Risk factors
Although the cause of Alzheimer’s is unknown, there are factors that can contribute to this condition. It is recommended to monitor cardiovascular health, eat a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and be physically active.- Aging, is predominant but not decisive.
- Lack of physical activity.
- Obesity.
- Tobacco use.
- Alcoholism.
- Diabetes and hypertension.
- Depression.
- Low cognitive activity.
- Social isolation.
At the ABC Neurological Center we have a select team of health professionals in various disciplines, who will use all their knowledge and dedication to safely treat their patients’ condition.
- World alzheimer’s day
September 21 has been World Alzheimer’s Day since 1994.
At the Neurological Center of the ABC Medical Center we can give you specialized care. Contact us!
