Stats by the NHS show that 1 in 14 people over 65 years of age are at risk of suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of vascular dementia.
If you have a loved one who is suffering from Alzheimers disease, then you will understand just how damaging it is. It is heart-breaking watching a loved one suffer, especially when memory loss sets in and they struggle to remember who we are.
Understanding what Alzheimer’s disease is, how it works, and what help is available brings a level of comfort. We’re here to help you understand this awful disease, and show you that you are not alone. Help is available, and here is everything you need to know about it.
What is the Most Common Cause of Alzheimer’s Disease?
It is thought to be caused by an abnormal build-up of proteins in and around brain cells. Amyloid, which is one of the proteins that build up around brain cells, forms plaque deposits. These plaque deposits then damage brain cells, which is thought to be one of the primary causes of Alzheimer’s disease.
Another protein, called tau, forms tangles within brain cells, which further contributes towards the disease. Neurotransmitters become affected by this plaque build-up. Neurotransmitters are what send chemical messages in the brain, which is why some of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are cognitive impairment, cognitive decline and memory loss.
Alzheimer’s is a disease common in adults above the age of 65. However, 1 in 20 people who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease are under 65 years of age. This is referred to as early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease can begin in someone’s 30s.
Is There a Cure for Alzheimer’s Disease?
Unfortunately, there is no Alzheimer’s disease cure; yet. However, there are treatments available that reduce symptoms, like diminishing cognitive function, for a temporary period. New research is constantly being undertaken to discover how we can treat Alzheimer’s disease and one day end it altogether.
What Treatment is There for Alzheimer’s Disease?
Prescription medications are available to lessen the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and improve quality life. These medicines are available for a prescription through the NHS. We have broken down the two primary Alzheimer’s disease medications below.
-Acetylcholinesterase: This is used at the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease where cognitive impairment and cognitive decline are more prevalent.
– Memantine: This medicine is used to treat people with severe Alzheimer’s disease, like older adults whose cognitive function has deteriorated.
Alzheimer’s Help Near Me
If you or your loved one has symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, like problems with memory loss or cognitive impairment, then speak with your GP. There are also charities that provide support, like Alzheimer’s society.
Catching this disease early will improve quality life and help to reduce the symptoms. This is why it is important to seek help straight away if you have any concerns about your health. Although Alzheimer’s is a disease common in people above the age of 65, it doesn’t mean you’re free from risk if you are younger than this.
There are also healthcare providers you can speak with. Healthcare providers can assist with the day-to-day support of your or your loved ones by providing meals, helping to take medication, and providing companionship. Healthcare providers are especially important if someone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease lives alone or does not have any local family or friends to support them.
Supporting Healthcare Providers and Those Caring for Alzheimer’s Patients
One of the biggest dangers to people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of vascular dementia is the cold. Cold weather can lead to pneumonia, and can even prove fatal to older adults. People suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia may not realise how cold their home is, which is extremely detrimental to their health.
At Assurekink our home monitoring systems detect when a door has been left open. Someone suffering from vascular dementia might forget to close a door behind them, which lets cold air in. Our system will alert you to this, so you can make contact and ensure they are okay.
Discover more about our revolutionary new system by clicking here.
