The word "dementia" refers to various symptoms commonly found in people with brain diseases, causing destruction and loss of cells. While brain cell loss is a natural process, in diseases that lead to dementia it occurs more rapidly, causing the brain to malfunction. The symptoms of dementia cause a gradual and slow deterioration of a person's ability to function, with this brain damage affecting mental function (memory, attention, concentration, language, thought), and subsequently impacting behavior.
Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia (50% to 70% of all cases). The disease is named after the German physician Alois Alzheimer, who first described it in 1907.
Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that causes a global, progressive, and irreversible deterioration of various cognitive functions (memory, attention, concentration, language, thought, among others). This deterioration leads to several consequences such as changes in behavior, personality, and functional capacity, thus making it difficult to perform daily living activities.
Alzheimer's disease, like other dementias, causes several symptoms, including:
- Memory loss
- Language/communication problems
- Mood swings/personality changes
- Disorientation
- Difficulties in performing daily tasks
- Disruptive or inappropriate behavior
It is important to keep in mind that, unlike other dementias, in Alzheimer's disease, recent memory is usually much more affected than other mental functions.
Prevention of Alzheimer's disease:
There are some tips that can help prevent or delay Alzheimer's disease, such as:
- Stay mentally active: Set aside 15 minutes each day to engage in activities that keep your brain active (memory games, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, etc.).
- Engage in physical exercise: Regular exercise can reduce the chances of developing Alzheimer's by up to 50%, making it important to do 30 minutes of physical activity 3 to 5 times a week (swimming, dancing, team sports, etc.).
- Adopting a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in vegetables, fish, and fruits helps to properly nourish the brain, preventing diseases from developing.
- Good sleep hygiene: sleeping at least 8 hours a night helps regulate brain function, preventing the onset of dementia.
Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease
There are many doubts and questions regarding the treatment of this disease. The truth is that Alzheimer's is currently irreversible and incurable; however, it is possible to treat some of its symptoms. The goal is to slow the progression of symptoms, not only in the cognitive area, but also by addressing behavioral changes (agitation and aggression, etc.) and mood changes (depression, apathy, etc.) that arise due to cognitive decline. This treatment is done using medication simultaneously with other therapies that play a fundamental role.
Regarding pharmacological treatment, the goal is to correct the chemical imbalance in brain activity caused by Alzheimer's disease, leading to a stabilization of its functioning. It is important to keep in mind that medications can alleviate some cognitive and behavioral symptoms, but they do not modify the progressive trajectory of dementia. Pharmacological prescriptions should be made by a specialist physician in neurology and/or psychiatry.
Because it is a permanent and incurable disease, it is extremely important to adopt an integrated approach that includes not only the person suffering from dementia but also their family, providing support to both parties.
As mentioned earlier, drug treatment plays a crucial role in stabilizing patients with memory difficulties.
In addition to this treatment, non-pharmacological intervention has also demonstrated advantages and good results in maintaining daily functional abilities and cognitive improvements. In this type of intervention, in conjunction with other professionals from different areas (e.g., doctor, neurologist, nurse, occupational therapist), the psychologist assumes a fundamental role in prevention and treatment, where the objective is to minimize the obstacles present in the life of a person with Alzheimer's disease.
Advice and guidance for families with people who have Alzheimer's disease:
- Encourage the person with Alzheimer's to wear a bracelet, necklace, or other accessory with identification information;
- Establish a daily routine and help the patient stick to it;
- To encourage the patient's family and social interaction;
- Establish eye contact and listen attentively;
- Maintain a calm environment;
- Using body language facilitates communication;
- Use short and simple sentences;
- Replace negative phrases with affirmative ones (“Don’t do that” with “it’s better to do it this way.”);
- Be patient.
The discovery of an Alzheimer's diagnosis generates enormous frustration and anger on the part of family members, making it essential to embrace and accept the disease, learning to cope with it in the most appropriate way possible . Therefore, seeking information about Alzheimer's, its manifestations, and the types of treatment available is fundamental to preserving the quality of life of the individual with this disease and their family.
Should you require assistance with this issue, Taipas Termal offers a Mental Health and Therapy Unit where it will be possible to maximize cognitive function and well-being, as well as help in the process of adapting to the illness. The activities developed aim to stimulate abilities, preserving autonomy, comfort, and dignity. Psychological support will equip the patient and their family with... Useful strategies and tools for the daily life of a person with Alzheimer's disease.
Dr. Mariana Silva – Mental Health and Therapy Unit - Taipas Termal
