Alzheimer's Day 2023

The 21st September each year is Alzheimer’s Day; a day where people all across the world raise awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease.

It is so important to raise awareness to help with global research into this disease. There are more than 50 million people across the world living with dementia which is why the development and research is so vital.

Alzheimer's Disease-what is it?

Alzheimer’s Disease is a physical disease which affects the brain and is the most common cause of dementia.

A build up of protein in the brain causes the nerve cells in the brain to disconnect. It is a progressive disease meaning that over time the brain will gradually suffer more and more damage.

Normally people develop the disease after the age of 65 however, early onset Alzheimers currently affects around 40,000 people in the UK.

Alzheimer’s Disease-What are the symptoms?

Memory problems are some of the first signs of this disease and it’s often related to more recent events and things such as learning new information. As the disease gets worse and worse the person’s day to day will start to be affected. They might begin to forget friend’s and family member’s names, they may forget to turn up to appointments or may not remember familiar places they go to.

They may begin to struggle with things like their sight as the brain struggles to process vision, their decision making ability may suffer and their speech might also be impacted.

Their moods may become low and they might begin to suffer with depression and become withdrawn from people and activities.

Alzheimer’s Disease-What to do if you are concerned you or a loved one may have it?

An early diagnosis of this disease is so vitally important so don’t ignore symptoms. There are medications now that can slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s and can help to ease symptoms.

The symptoms are often considered to just be simply signs of ageing but if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one then the sooner you get checked out the better.

The medication can also help to ease anxiety and help the person with concentration and staying motivated.

You will also be offered lots of support to help you understand the disease more and there are lots of services and equipment that can help you live with the disease.

At Nottingham on Call we have many customers living with Alzheimer’s disease and they have found our 24 hour lifeline support has been very helpful and gives them peace of mind especially if they live alone.

We also have a range of equipment that can support you in the home with living with this disease and we can put together a bespoke support package to assist you with your individual needs. Call us today to discuss how we can help you: 0115 746 9101.

If you are concerned you or a loved one could have Alzheimer’s Disease then do get booked in to see your GP as soon as possible. They will be able to rule out any other conditions and if they suspect it might be Alzheimer’s they can refer you for further tests to get a diagnosis.