Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease:
A Beginner’s Guide
Introduction
Alzheimer’s disease is a steadily progressing neurodegenerative condition that mainly impacts memory, thinking, and behavior. Alzheimer’s disease is named after Dr. Alois Alzheimer, who first identified and documented it in 1906. It happens when harmful proteins build up in the brain, causing it to stop functioning properly. These misfolded proteins form filaments and clumps in the brain, visible during a postmortem examination.
This introductory guide aims to provide an understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, covering its signs, underlying factors, methods of diagnosis, available treatments, guidance for those living with the condition, and supportive tips for caregivers to provide compassionate care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. By understanding the nature of Alzheimer’s disease, individuals, families, and caregivers can better manage the challenges associated with the disease.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is based on our best knowledge and has been reviewed by a neurologist. It is intended solely to raise awareness and provide general knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For personalized guidance and care, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. If you or your loved ones are experiencing symptoms or have concerns related to a neurological disorder, please seek advice from a neurologist.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Dementia vs Alzheimer’s disease
Dementia is often confused with Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia is a syndrome, while Alzheimer’s disease falls under the dementia umbrella. Dementia is a phrase used to define neurodegenerative disorders of the brain that impair cognitive functions. It is not a specific disease but rather a deterioration in cognitive skills from a previously higher level, significant enough to disrupt daily life.
Understanding Dementia
Dementia develops when infections or illnesses impact the brain areas that control memory, learning, decision-making, or language. Alzheimer’s disease is a leading cause of dementia, responsible for at least two-thirds of cases in individuals aged 65 and older. Worldwide, over 55 million people are affected by Alzheimer’s disease. As the disease progress, it leads severe cognitive and functional decline, eventually leading to complete dependency.
Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and dementia linked to Parkinson’s disease. A person having dementia usually experiences at least two of the following challenges, such as changes or difficulties in:
- Remembering information (decline in memory)
- Logical thinking and managing complex tasks
- Communication and language skills
- Understanding visual-spatial relationships (like recognizing object placement, navigating a space, driving, cycling, etc.)
- Behavior and personality
Alzheimer’s Disease in India
Currently, more than 4 million people in India are living with some form of dementia. Globally, over 44 million individuals are affected, making dementia a pressing global health challenge that requires urgent attention.
While specific data on Alzheimer’s disease prevalence within rural India is limited, earlier studies provide some insights. For instance, a 1998 study in rural India reported an Alzheimer’s disease prevalence rate of 0.62% among individuals aged 55 and older, and 1.07% among those aged 65 and older.
Alzheimer’s disease is a growing concern in India. In 2019, the country ranked fourth globally in the number of dementia cases, including Alzheimer’s disease. By 2050, India is projected to surpass Japan and the United States, becoming the second highest in dementia prevalence worldwide. Therefore, there is a pressing need for increased awareness and research in this field.
Here are some demographic factors influencing Alzheimer’s disease:
Demographic Factors
- Age: Alzheimer’s disease prevalence increases significantly with age, affecting approximately 5% of people aged 65 to 74, rising to nearly 50% in those over 85. Early-onset Alzheimer’s, though rare, can occur in individuals in their 40s and 50s, often linked to genetic mutations. The risk significantly increases with advancing age, making it a major concern among elderly populations.
- Gender distribution: Alzheimer’s disease is more common in women than in men. About two-thirds of all individuals with Alzheimer’s are women. This is partly because women tend to live longer than men, and age is the most significant risk factor for the disease. While men are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s overall, they may experience other forms of dementia, such as vascular dementia, more frequently.
- Geographic Variation: In India, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease is higher in urban areas compared to rural regions, potentially due to differences in lifestyle, education, and healthcare access. Regional disparities may also be influenced by genetic factors, environmental exposures, and varying levels of awareness and diagnosis.
Early Signs and Symptoms
The early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can vary between individuals, but they often involve subtle changes in memory, thinking, and behavior. Recognizing these early signs is important for timely diagnosis and intervention. Here are some of the most common early symptoms:
- Amnesia/Memory loss
- Trouble with planning or problem-solving
- Disorientation regarding time or location
- Difficulty understanding visual and spatial relationships
- Problems with language
- Misplacing items
- Poor judgment or decision-making
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Changes in personality and mood swings
- Difficulty with familiar tasks
Psychological and Behavioral Symptoms
Throughout the disease progression, Alzheimer’s disease can cause various neuropsychiatric symptoms, such as:
- Agitation or Aggression: Emotional outbursts due to frustration or confusion.
- Delusions or Hallucinations: Believing in things that are not real or perceiving things that do not exist.
- Wandering: Aimlessly moving about, often increasing the risk of getting lost or injured.