Every September, people come together from around the world to raise awareness and challenge the stigma around dementia, led by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), the federation of over 100 Alzheimer’s and dementia associations from across the globe. Know more about Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

What’s the difference between Alzheimer’s and Dementia?

Although sometimes it is confusing, dementia and Alzheimer's disease are distinct conditions. The term "dementia" refers to a broad spectrum of symptoms associated with memory loss and cognitive decline that is severe enough to impair a person's ability to carry out daily tasks. Of all dementia cases, 60 to 80 percent are caused by Alzheimer's disease. The second most typical type is vascular dementia, which can occur after a stroke. Dementia-like symptoms can also be brought on by a wide range of additional, frequently treatable diseases like thyroid issues or vitamin deficiencies. 

The grandpa character from TV shows who consistently nods off at awkward times is so ubiquitous it's practically cliched. However, daytime naps and sporadic nighttime sleep are not typical signs of aging. Sleep issues may be curable and can be an early indicator of a neurodegenerative disorder.

There are some studies going on regarding Alzheimer’s and its early symptoms and prevention.

Phase 2 clinical research is being started by scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis to determine whether treating elderly patients' sleep issues with medicine will lessen the symptoms of early Alzheimer's. A favorable outcome would suggest a new strategy for postponing or preventing the onset of Alzheimer's disease.

Pay close attention to the following warning signs, and if you or a loved one exhibits any of them, seek medical help right once.

  • Memory loss that interferes with daily life can manifest as losing freshly acquired knowledge or repeatedly inquiring for the same information.
  • Problem-solving difficulties include, for instance, difficulty focusing, adhering to plans, preparing a tried-and-true recipe, keeping track of recurring expenses, or dealing with figures.
  • Completing routine chores with difficulty, including getting lost in your own neighborhood or forgetting how to get to a known place.
  • Confusing dates, seasons, the passage of time, or forgetting where you are or how you got there, are just a few examples of time or place confusion.
  • You may encounter vision issues, which can make it difficult to read, judge distances, or recognize color or contrast.
  • Speaking or writing issues, such as halting talks in the middle, using the same words over and over, having trouble with terminology, or referring to items by the wrong name.
  • Putting items in odd locations, losing things and being unable to go back and get them, or even believing that someone is taking your possessions are examples of misplacing things.
  • Lack of or poor judgment: Examples include making bad financial choices, handing over cash to telemarketers or salespeople, or putting less thought to personal hygiene or grooming.

According to Harvard Health, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. 

Exercise

The strongest evidence points to the fact that regular exercise can help delay its progression in those who already have symptoms. Three to four days a week should include 30 minutes of fairly intense aerobic activity.

Eat a balanced diet

It has been demonstrated that doing this can slow the onset of Alzheimer's disease. It is important for those who may find it challenging to fully stick to a new diet to know that even partial adherence to a healthy diet is preferable to doing nothing, according to a recent study. Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, nuts, legumes, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products in moderation, red wine in moderation, and red meat in moderation are all included in the diet.

Get adequate rest

There is mounting evidence that better sleep promotes amyloid clearance from the brain and may help prevent Alzheimer's. For each night, aim for seven to eight hours.

Take supplements that are good for brain health and wellness

We at WTR have a range of brain health supplements to support your overall mental wellness. Check out our website’s brain and cognition section to look at our products!

Sources:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/alzheimers-and-dementia/what-can-you-do-to-avoid-alzheimers-disease

https://www.healthinaging.org/blog/alzheimers-brain-awareness-month

https://www.hughjames.com/blog/world-alzheimer%E2%80%99s-month

https://medicine.wustl.edu/news/does-improving-sleep-reduce-signs-of-early-alzheimers-disease