Hyderabad: The tragic circumstances in which Pandit Vithal Rao died has brought to the fore the need to understand Alzheimer’s better so that those who suffer from it can be protected.
Pandit Rao’s case has brought to light the number of senior citizens who go missing and then have difficulty finding their way back home even in their own city.
It also brings to the fore the need for relatives, caretakers and common people to understand the disease which strike the elderly and opt for means to help them.
The first stage of Alzheimer’s is memory loss in which a person is not able to remember even familiar surroundings. These are then followed by withdrawal from physical activity and social interaction becomes a major problem.
But the medical fraternity states that no two patients suffering from Alzheimer’s will be the same. For this reason, there are a list of signs and symptoms to look out for and ensure that proper treatment is given from time to time.
Apart from medication, brainteasers are also very important. Dr Chandrashekar Naidu, a senior neurosurgeon at the Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences said, “When the disease is diagnosed early we ask relatives to make them play games that challenge the brain. We recommend games like chess, crosswords, puzzles, musical instruments and also ask them to continue social interaction with others. It is also important to encourage them to carry out physical activities daily. A reminder chart must be placed and they must be told to wash hands before and after eating food, after coming out from the bathroom etc. These pointers are important and constant reminders are a must.” If these daily routines are ignored the degeneration of the brain is faster.
In India about 3.2 million people are affected Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. It is caused by high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, excessive weight and is genetic in nature. In fact, 70 per cent of the cases are genetic. It is found in 5 per cent of the population who are older than 65 years and 20 per cent to 40 per cent of those older than 85 years.
Dr Suresh Reddy, consultant neuro physician at Aware Global Hospitals said, “When the disease strikes brothers, sisters and children, then a direct link can be established. There is a mutation in one of the genes that leads to early onset of the disease. In these cases it is found to affect family members under the age of 65.”
In those who are affected by lifestyle diseases the degeneration is gradual. These patients are also found to suffer from bouts of depression, anxiety and violent behaviour. They tend to get into arguments over small issues. Caregivers of these patients must be tactful.
