Let’s Talk About Alzheimer’s | Dr Ruhil Badiani | 28 May

WHAT IS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for approximately 60-80% of dementia cases. It primarily affects older adults, with the risk increasing significantly after the age of 65. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease beginning with mild memory loss and possibly leading to loss of the ability to carry a conversation and respond to the environment. The progression of the disease varies from person to person, but it generally advances through several stages over several years.

SYMPTOMS OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are often categorised into early, moderate, and severe stages:

Early Stage:

– Mild memory loss, particularly for recent events or newly acquired information.

– Difficulty in planning and organising.

– Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps to find them.

– Slight changes in mood and personality, such as increased anxiety or irritability.

Moderate Stage:

– Increased memory loss and confusion.

– Difficulty recognising friends and family.

– Challenges with language, such as finding the right words or following conversations.

– Greater difficulty with complex tasks and problem-solving.

– Behavioural changes, including wandering, agitation, and repetitive behaviours.

Severe Stage:

– Significant loss of ability to communicate coherently.

– Extensive memory loss, including the inability to recognise loved ones.

– Dependence on others for daily activities and personal care.

– Severe physical decline, including difficulty swallowing and walking.

WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease remains elusive, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Key risk factors include:

• Age is the best known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.
• Family history—researchers believe that genetics may play a role in developing Alzheimer’s disease.
• Changes in the brain can begin years before the first symptoms appear.
• Researchers are studying whether education, diet, and environment play a role in developing Alzheimer’s disease.
• There is growing scientific evidence that healthy behaviours, which have been shown to prevent cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, may also reduce risk for subjective cognitive decline.

HOW DO I REDUCE MY RISK OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

• Maintain a healthy diet– Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain, olive oil, fish and nuts are associated with lower rates of cognitive decline and support brain health. 
• Exercise– Regular physical exercise if one of the best ways to reduce your risk of dementia. It’s good for your heart, circulation, weight and mental wellbeing. A combination of both aerobic and strength-building activity will help you reduce your risk of all types of dementia. 
• Don’t smoke and drink less alcohol– If you smoke, you’re putting yourself at a much higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. It affects the circulation of blood around the body, including the brain. It’s never too late to quit and with guidance from Dr Ruhil you can be more successful. Alcohol in excess also increases the risk of dementia, make sure to drink no more than 14 units of alcohol.

• Look after your mental health and stay socially active– People who have had periods of depression in their life also have a higher risk of developing dementia. Social isolation can greatly increase a person’s risk of dementia. Engaging in social activities may help to build up your brain’s ability to relieve stress and improve your mood. If you are struggling with your mental health, book to see the doctor at Cornerstone clinic. 
• Stay mentally active– Keeping the brain engaged can help build cognitive reserve and delay the onset of dementia symptoms:

– Lifelong Learning: Continually engaging in new learning experiences, such as taking classes or learning new skills.

      – Cognitive Games: Puzzles, crosswords, and brain-training apps stimulate the brain and promote mental sharpness.

      – Hobbies and Creative Activities: Engaging in hobbies like reading, playing musical instruments, or crafting can enhance cognitive function.

• Manage chronic health conditions– Certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, can increase the risk of getting dementia. An important way to manage this is by going for an annual health check with Dr Ruhil at CornerStone Clinic in Dubai.
• Protect you head– Traumatic brain injuries are caused by a blow or jolt to the head – especially when the person is knocked out unconscious. These can start a process in the brain where the substances that cause Alzheimer’s disease build up around the injured area. Wear protective headgear in situations where there is a higher-than-normal risk of head injury – for example, riding a bike, working on a building site, horse-riding or playing cricket.
• Protect your hearing– Hearing loss is related to an increased risk of developing dementia and may be an early symptom. Managing hearing loss works best when you start doing it early on. You can avoid listening to loud noises for long periods and wear ear protection when necessary. The use of hearing aids has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia to the level of a person with normal hearing.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk. By maintaining a nutritious diet, staying physically and mentally active, managing chronic health conditions, avoiding harmful habits, ensuring quality sleep, staying socially engaged, protecting against head injuries, and having regular medical check-ups, you can support your brain health and potentially delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Each of these strategies contributes to a holistic approach to maintaining cognitive function and overall well-being throughout life.

If you are concerned about yourself or a family member, book an appointment or for more information, contact us at +971 50 494 6377 to arrange an appointment with our GP, Dr Ruhil Badiani.

Dr Ruhil Badiani is a British doctor, who studied, graduated and practised in London for 10 years, before moving out to Dubai. Dr Ruhil Badiani has experience in treating patients of all ages and backgrounds. She values the patient doctor relationship and recognises the importance of psychological and social factors, as well as the physical factors, which contribute to a patient’s presentation. She recognises the importance of lifestyle changes to improve health and prevent disease, and is confident in the diagnosis and monitoring of chronic disease.