Alzheimer disease Dementia

ABC Of

Dementia

ABC of dementia
Alzheimer disease Dementia

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What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is the commonest form of dementia worldwide, accounting for about 60-80% of cases. It is caused by the abnormal build-up of proteins in the brain cells known as tau protein as well as around the cells called amyloid plaques. These abnormal proteins causes disruption in neurochemical transmission between brain cells and accelerates brain cell death. The disease process frequently causes shrinkage of the hippocampus of the brain, which is responsible for memory storage, and gradually spreads to all areas of the brain.

Cause

Atrophy of the whole brain, mainly around the hippocampus, is observed.

Stages of Alzheimer’s disease dementia

Alzheimer’s disease is broadly divided into the mild, moderate and severe stage. In the mild stages of Alzheimer’s disease, the individual would have developed symptoms of cognitive impairment which interferes with some of their usual activities of daily living, they would require readjustment to their lifestyle in order to stay as independent as possible. The symptoms of dementia at this stage may not be apparent to casual passers-by but only noticeable by family and close friends. As they progress to the moderate stage, the deficit of their cognitive function becomes more apparent. They would have more difficulties in maintaining their basic self-care and most will require some form of supervision.

They are more likely to exhibit behavioural changes due to frustration and confusion in understanding their surroundings and conversations. The difficulties in expressing themselves may also cause misunderstandings with their caregivers. In the late or advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease, one would become more confined to their own surroundings. Family and friends will have to exert more effort to communicate and understand the person living with dementia as they may lose the ability to verbalise or even perform their day-to-day activities.

Main Symptoms

Forgetfulness which affects daily life, whereby the person will have difficulties recalling recent events, misplaces belongings, forgetting names of familiar contacts and asking questions repetitively.

Changes to behaviour and mood such as apathy (lack of motivation), agitation, aggression, depression or anxiety.

Have problems coordinating their movements, experience muscle rigidity or muscle tremors too. Most will need to use a walker or cane to avoid a fall.

Tend to forget that they’ve just completed a task. Therefore, they often do or say something over and over.

Due to forgetfulness, people with dementia may start to neglect their personal hygiene. You might find them wearing the same clothes for many days in a row.

lack of motivation and drive, feeling fatigued and the feeling of needing more sleep.

Sleeping habits might be affected. Those with Alzheimer’s tend to have trouble sleeping through the night. They also may experience Sundowners Syndrome and become more agitated during the evening hours.