Alzheimer's disease is a progressive and degenerative brain disorder characterised by an ongoing decline of brain functioning. It is the most common form of dementia and affects mainly older adults, and it is estimated that over 850,000 people currently are living with the disease in the UK.

Despite being common, Alzheimer's can be challenging to diagnose and manage. That's why care and management of Alzheimer's patients are crucial for their wellbeing and the wellbeing of their caregivers.

The goals of care and management for Alzheimer's patients are to maintain their quality of life, maximise their independence, and provide support for their families and caregivers. Individualised care plans are essential for Alzheimer's patients, as the disease can affect each person differently. 

Symptoms and diagnosis

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually affecting the ability to carry out simple tasks.

The early signs of Alzheimer's disease may include memory loss, difficulty with language, mood changes, and confusion. These symptoms can be subtle at first, but as the disease progresses, they become more severe and noticeable.

Hence, early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease are crucial to allow for better management of symptoms and help slow the progression of the disease. 

Risk Factors Impacting Alzheimer's Disease 

While the exact cause of the disease remains unknown, there are several identified risk factors that may increase a person's likelihood of developing the condition.

• Age: One of the most significant risk factors for Alzheimer's disease is age. According to the Alzheimer's Association, the risk of developing the disease doubles every five years after the age of 65. In fact, the majority of people with Alzheimer's disease are over the age of 65.
• Family history: Another important risk factor for Alzheimer's disease is a family history of the condition. If a person has a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, their risk of developing the condition increases.
• Down's syndrome: People with Down's syndrome also have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. In fact, up to 75% of people with Down's syndrome will develop dementia as they age, with Alzheimer's disease being the most common type.
• Head injuries: Sustaining a severe head injury may also increase a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Research has shown that people who have experienced a traumatic brain injury may be at a higher risk of developing dementia later in life.
• Cardiovascular related lifestyle factors: Lastly, certain cardiovascular related lifestyle factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, may increase a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. This is because these conditions can damage the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain, leading to cognitive decline over time.

Dealing with Alzheimer's Disease: Alzheimer care at home

Alzheimer's disease is a complex and challenging condition to deal with, both for patients and their caregivers. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, there are a number of strategies that can be employed to help manage the condition and Alzheimer care at home for those affected. 

Lifestyle changes and modifications

People with Alzheimer’s disease can benefit from maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These interventions may slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.

Exercise is a powerful tool in Alzheimer's disease management, as it can help improve overall health and well-being, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance cognitive function. Even light physical activity, such as walking, can have a significant impact on patients' mood and cognitive abilities. Understand Physical Fitness and Exercise for Seniors before beginning.

Eating a well-balanced, healthy diet is also important for managing Alzheimer's disease. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help improve overall health and cognitive function. It is also important to limit saturated and trans fats, as these can contribute to cardiovascular disease, which is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Understand Nutrition and Healthy Eating for Older Adults for optimum outcomes

Social interaction is another important component of Alzheimer's disease care. Patients who engage in social activities and maintain social connections tend to have better cognitive function and overall well-being. Caregivers can encourage patients to participate in social activities, such as joining a club or attending a support group, to promote social engagement and reduce isolation. 

Uncover the Effects of Social Isolation on Mental Health and Impact on Older Adults.

Cognitive training and Stimulation

Engaging in activities and tasks that help stimulate the brain can be very helpful.  There are various memory games, and puzzles available for this. Such interventions can help patients maintain cognitive abilities and reduce cognitive decline over time.

Alternative therapies

There are a number of alternative therapies that have been used to manage Alzheimer's disease, including music therapy, art therapy, and pet therapy. These interventions can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation, and improving overall well-being.

Music therapy, for example, involves listening to or playing music as a way to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Art therapy involves using art as a means of self-expression and creativity, which can be therapeutic for patients with Alzheimer's disease. Pet therapy involves interaction with animals, which can help reduce stress and improve mood.

Can Alzheimer's disease be prevented?

Reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease

Studies have found that a healthy cardiovascular system is linked to a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. This means that individuals can reduce their risk of developing this condition by making lifestyle changes that support a healthy heart. For example, regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and therefore, reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Other risk factors for dementia

In addition to cardiovascular disease, there are several other risk factors that have been linked to an increased risk of developing dementia, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Managing these conditions through medication, lifestyle changes, and regular medical check-ups can help to reduce the risk of developing dementia.

Staying mentally and socially active

Engaging in mentally and socially stimulating activities has been shown to have a protective effect against Alzheimer's disease. Activities such as reading, playing games, learning new skills, and socialising with friends and family can help to keep the brain active and healthy, reducing the risk of cognitive decline and memory loss. 

Find out more ways to Reduce Social Isolation in Elderly.

Creating a safe and supportive environment

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, creating a safe and supportive environment becomes a crucial aspect of their care. Alzheimer's disease can impair memory, judgement, and decision-making abilities, leading to increased risk of accidents and injuries. Providing a safe and secure environment can help reduce the risk of such incidents and promote the individual's overall well-being.

Communication strategies

Communication can become increasingly difficult for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It's important to maintain a clear and simple communication style, using short and direct sentences. Avoiding confrontation and allowing the individual to express themselves at their own pace can also help reduce confusion and frustration. Using visual aids such as pictures or gestures can also aid in communication.

Accessible community resources

There are a variety of community resources available to support individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. This includes adult day care centers, respite care services, and home health care providers. Local Alzheimer's Association chapters can also provide information and support to individuals and families affected by the disease.

Read also, Mental Health and Wellbeing: How you can support your ageing parents?

While there is no sure way to prevent Alzheimer's disease, taking these steps to reduce risk factors and support brain health can help to lower the chances of developing this condition. Additionally, early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can lead to earlier interventions and treatments, which can help to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life for individuals and their caregivers.