EDITORIAL - Focus on Alzheimer’s prevention

 

Each year in September we focus more on members of our elderly population in recognition of Senior Citizens Month, with the world joining suit at the end of the month, on October 1st, to celebrate International Day of the Elderly. Over the years issues raised would have included the subject of health, social inclusion, and improving the state of living for the elderly. This year focus has centred on a debilitating disease affecting a lot of the elderly – Alzheimer’s – which ironically is highlighted in September as well with World Alzheimer’s Month.
 
Here in Barbados, there was a church service last Sunday to mark World Alzheimer’s Month, where president of the local association, Pamelia Brereton, revealed some startling findings. It was stated that dementia in the Americas is set to increase from 9.4 million to almost 30 million by 2050 – the figure in Barbados presently stands at 4 077 people living with dementia; and that every four seconds somewhere in the world a new case develops. She also revealed that the disease is claiming younger victims than one would expect. According to her, previously persons usually had to reach around 85 years old before the onset of this disease took over their mind, but now persons as young as 30 years old are being diagnosed with it.
 
This has serious implications for Barbadian society, which has an ageing population. With such a high number of elderly presently and with numbers expected to increase in coming years, the risk of an increase in Alzheimer’s cases is great. From a socio-economic standpoint, Alzheimer’s affects not just the patient but his/her entire family support system. As loved ones deteriorate, caregivers can become overwhelmed, stressed and depressed, and this can affect their productivity in their jobs, jeopardising their financial security. Therefore, with an expected increase in 
cases of this disease, there will come more financial challenges for individuals and more issues with productivity in the workforce.
 
In an effort to reduce some of the challenges that come with lack of understanding and poor preparation, the Barbados Alzheimer’s Association is offering a Participation Programme to persons who administer care to their loved ones at home and to those who work in various institutions where people with Alzheimer’s are accommodated. The programme is unique in that it not only focuses on patient care, but offers instruction to the caregivers on how to care for themselves as well.
 
However, prevention is better than cure, and there is no cure for Alzheimer’s so people should try to prevent it where possible by taking charge of their health and trying to avoid risks to developing this condition. While it is true that it is a complex disease with multiple risk factors, including age and genetics, which are outside one’s control, there are lifestyle changes that can help prevent its onset. Some changes include getting regular exercise; staying socially engaged; eating a healthy diet; stimulating yourself mentally; getting a good night’s sleep; and managing stress. 
 
In the final analysis, Alzheimer’s is affecting numerous people in Barbados’ society today and signs indicate that, unless more is done to keep seniors healthy, it may get worse. Yet, this is only one issue affecting the elderly. There needs to be more attention and commitment towards seniors year-round. It should not be considered time sensitive or relegated to a specific period within the month of September. Issues affecting the elderly need to be addressed every single day if any progress is to be made.

Barbados Advocate

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