Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s Disease (The Alzheimer’s Association, alz.org).
Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) estimates that in 2013 there were 44.4 million persons worldwide with the disease. This number is estimated to increase to 75.6 million in 2030 and to 135.5 million in 2050. Much of the increase will be in developing countries – the fastest growth seen to take place in China, India and South Asia.
The following are tell-tail signs of Alzheimer’s Disease:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty performing familiar tasks
- Problems with language & communication
- Disorientation with regard to location or time
- Poor or decreased judgement
- Problems with keeping track of things
- Misplacing things
- Changes in mood and behavior
- Changes in personality
- Loss of interest in hobbies and personal activities
When a loved one is showing the above conditions, the Alzheimer’s Association recommends seeing a neurologist right away for a professional evaluation to determine the condition and to confirm if dementia is indeed the problem. Early diagnosis can give the person with dementia and his family the opportunity to explore available treatments, preserve quality of life and plan for the future.
Sources: Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) and Alzheimer’s Disease Association (ADA), Singapore (www.alz.org.sg)
