World Alzheimer's Day is September 21st

On Sept. 21, 2007, individuals and organizations will globally recognize World Alzheimer's Day. According to data from the Alzheimer's Association, more than 5 million Americans and 24 million individuals world-wide live with Alzheimer's disease, and every 72 seconds someone develops Alzheimer's. As the population continues to age, Alzheimer's disease becomes an increasing public health issue.

World Alzheimer's Day is a collective day of recognition to raise awareness about the disease, its signs, and treatments. Each year World Alzheimer's Day focuses on a single message to educate and challenge people's misconceptions about Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The theme of this year's World Alzheimer's Day is "the realities of life with the dementia."

Basic Facts & Prevalence

Dementia is loosely defined as "a group of disorders that cause irreversible cognitive decline as a result of various biological mechanisms that damage brain cells," according to the Alzheimer's Association. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 50-70 percent of dementia cases and impacts memory, the ability to generate coherent speech or written language and the capacity to plan and make sound decisions, and interferes with day-to-day life.

Most individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease are age 65 or older, and although individuals younger than this can be diagnosed with the disease or other dementias. Medical practitioners refer to these cases as "early onset Alzheimer's disease." Estimates indicate that by 2050 the number of individuals age 65 and over with Alzheimer's could range from 11 million to 16 million in the U.S. because of the aging population.

Treatments

Unfortunately, no known treatment for Alzheimer's disease can stop the deterioration of brain cells. According to Alzheimer's Association data, currently the FDA has approved five drugs that temporarily slow worsening of symptoms in about half of the individuals who take them. However, early diagnosis is a key to more effective treatment, and research continues to unlock mysteries of the disease.

Studies have consistently shown that active management of Alzheimer's and other dementias can significantly improve quality of life through all stages of the disease for individuals and their caregivers. This includes appropriate use of available treatment options, effective integration of coexisting conditions into the treatment plan and utilization of programs and support services. Research has also shown management of cardiovascular risk factors as cholesterol and blood sugar levels and blood pressure and weight, regular physical exercise, and sustained mental stimulation may help avoid or delay cognitive decline.

Caregiving and Quality of Life

According to Alzheimer's Association estimates, almost 10 million Americans are caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia. This figure constitutes about 29 percent of all caregivers of people aged 60 and older. It can be difficult to figure out how to negotiate the role of "caregiver" and how to be comfortable in that new role. The tasks of caregiving range from providing highly personal care around the clock to supporting an older relative by phone and arranging for others to provide care from a distance. Caregiver support leads to a better quality of life for both the individual with Alzheimer's and his or her caregiver. Support for these individuals includes programs that mix in- and out-of-home sessions, information, role-playing to let caregivers practice the coping skills they're learning, respite opportunities, and discussion times. Additionally, educated and supported caregivers are less likely to suffer from caregiver stress.

World Alzheimer's Day on Sept. 21 recognizes that all of these aspects are part of the "the realities of life with the dementia." This day of recognition calls for a broader societal understanding of how the disease changes life for individuals and their loved ones. The day's theme emphasizes living and coping, instead of a diagnosis indicating the end.

Source:

Alzheimer's Association

Alzheimer's Disease International

APNews, Training helps Alzheimer's Caregivers