World Alzheimer’s Day (विश्व अल्जाइमर दिवस in Hindi) is celebrated on September 21st every year to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. It is a part of the World Alzheimer’s Month campaign, observed all through September. 

What is The Theme for World Alzheimer's Day 2021?

The theme of World’s Alzheimer’s Day 2021 is “Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s”. This year’s campaign focuses on the diagnosis of dementia, identification of its warning signs, and the importance of a timely diagnosis. 

The campaign encourages people to seek out information, advice, and support about dementia so they can prepare and adapt to life after the diagnosis. 

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a broad term including various medical conditions in which there is severe loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and thinking abilities. 

These cognitive issues disrupt an individual’s daily life and independent functioning and interfere with their behaviour, feelings, and relationships. There are various types of dementia and the most common is Alzheimer’s disease. 

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder in which brain cells die, resulting in memory problems, as well as issues with reasoning, decision-making, and planning. 

It is named after German psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer, who described the disease for the first time. 

  • Causes: The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not yet understood. According to research, it appears to be caused by the combined effect of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors on the brain over time.

  • Symptoms: Its most common symptom is memory loss. As the disease progresses, symptoms such as language problems, mood swings, self-neglect, and behavioural issues emerge. 

  • Diagnosis: There is no single diagnostic test for Alzheimer’s disease. If a doctor suspects Alzheimer’s, they would discuss the patient’s family and medical history. Cognitive and memory tests, neurological function tests, blood and urine tests, genetic tests, and CT or MRI scans of the brain may also be carried out. 

  • Treatment: There is currently no cure for the disease or treatment to reverse its progress. However, medications can ease cognitive symptoms (confusion, memory loss, etc.) and help manage the emotional and behavioural symptoms of the disease. 

FAQs About Alzheimer’s Disease

1) Do only older people get Alzheimer’s disease?

No. Although most people affected by Alzheimer’s are aged 65 and above, it can happen in younger individuals too. A small proportion, about 5%, start showing symptoms in their 30s-50s. 

The disease is then called early-onset Alzheimer’s.

2) Will I get Alzheimer’s disease if either of my parents has it?

Not always. A family history of Alzheimer’s only slightly increases your chances of developing it, but scientists do not clearly know how. The role of genetics in Alzheimer’s is still under research. 

3) Is memory loss the same as Alzheimer’s disease?

No. Memory loss: 

  • In Alzheimer’s is far more serious and impactful than occasional forgetfulness. 

  • Is not the only symptom of Alzheimer’s.

  • May have other causes apart from Alzheimer’s.

What Can You do For World Alzheimer’s Day 2021?

This World Alzheimer’s Day, you can contribute to the cause by:

  • Raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia amongst your family, friends, and through social media. 

  • Participating in activities for and donating to organizations that are working for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. 

Remember, no action is too small in this fight against Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Contribute to this cause by challenging the stigma and misinformation with facts.


References:

1. Alzint.org. 2021. ADI - Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s. [online] Available at: <https://www.alzint.org/get-involved/world-alzheimers-month/2021-theme/> [Accessed 21 September 2021].

2. Alzheimer's Society. 2021. World Alzheimer's Month. [online] Available at: <https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/world-alzheimers-month> [Accessed 21 September 2021].


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