The World Health Organization reports on dementia show an exponential increase in the number of older people living with dementia. According to WHO, today there are around 55 million people worldwide living with dementia, with over 60% living in low and middle-income countries. As the proportion of older adults increases, this number is expected to rise to 78 million in 2030 and 139 million in 2050! Dementia also happens to be the 7th leading cause of death amongst all diseases.
Closer home, the Indian demography shows a similar rate of growth in dementia cases. Studies by the Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India reveal that an estimated 5.3 million Indians aged >60 years had dementia in 2020, and this number is projected to exceed 14 million by 2050.
The risk of developing dementia in the Indian population is a fairly researched topic. It is common knowledge that Indians have a high burden of cardiovascular diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Such conditions adversely impact the onset and progression of dementia. Additional risk factors include genetic predisposition (presence of neurological diseases in the family), depression, social isolation, low education, cognitive inactivity, smoking & alcohol consumption, and low air quality index.
Dementia is a neurological condition that results in cognitive and behavioural changes and prevents the elder to lead an independent life. It is progressive in nature although the management of the different stages can be delayed with quality care and a supportive environment.
It is important to understand that symptoms of dementia are not to be mistaken as normal signs of aging. Detection of an early stage is formally dif?cult and its diagnosis is often based on a family member’s observations. Early symptoms include withdrawal, changes in mood and behaviour, short term memory loss and repetition, confusion, and disorientation. Additionally, one may also notice a loss of interest or skipping or rerouting daily activities, getting lost in one’s own familiar or neighbourhood surroundings, anxiety, uneasiness, and discord with even small matters. Onset is seldom?acute but on closer examination and introspection, one may conclude that these are not normal signs.
Living with dementia can be confusing, frustrating, and heartbreaking for loved ones. Persons with dementia (PwD) require round the clock care and attention to get through their day. At a stage when words fail and judgment gets hindered the elderly rely completely on the caregivers for additional support. Self esteem drops and the elderly may become isolated and depressed if emotional and social support is not adequate. In such circumstances, a gradual rapid decline is observed and the overall well-being gets compromised.
Caregivers of dementia face several issues other than managing known symptoms of dementia especially if they have other comorbidities. Living with dementia is challenging for the elderly as well as the caregiver or family members who are trying their best to assist them whilst managing their work and their personal lives. Developing effective ways to meaningfully engage the elderly using puzzles, simple kitchen activities, music, classic movies, reminiscence activities, or colourful activities via arts and crafts is important. Don’t argue or correct them, understand their sense of reality and live in it with them. Help them communicate better by understanding non verbal cues and eliminate episodes of anger and agitation by observing triggers. Seek professional help when required so that you don’t burn out.
Reducing risk factors in dementia is no different than proactively maintaining a healthy lifestyle in general. WHO recommends that the risk of cognitive decline and dementia can be reduced by being physically active, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, weight control through healthy & nutritious diet intake, and maintaining balanced cholesterol, blood pressure, and sugar levels. A lot has been spoken about the bene?ts of adding virgin coconut oil to the daily diet and following a Mediterranean diet of beans, leafy vegetables, fruits, and low in meat and sugar.
More importantly, it is important to prepare for healthy aging- one must work hard towards it in advance. Eliminate ?nancial stress by preparing well for retirement,
building a strong social circle, developing a support system, cultivating hobbies; it is never too late to learn something, and lastly, keeping your mind active and stimulated!
About the Author: Neha Sinha is the CEO and Co-founder, Epoch Elder Care and dementia specialist. All views/ opinions expressed are of the author.