September brings World Alzheimer’s Month—a time for reflection and awareness about a life-altering experience that many individuals and families suddenly face. Time to Act on Dementia, Time to Act on Alzheimer’s – as we come together to reflect on this grave reality, it is clear that serious action is needed.
When someone receives an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, it can feel like their whole world is turned upside down; their loved ones experience a range of emotions—fear of the unknown, confusion about what the future holds, and a deep sadness for all the changes that lie ahead.
It’s alarming how easily these stories can be overlooked in a society that often shies away from difficult conversations. Let’s create spaces where people feel safe to share their experiences and seek support.
Here’s how we believe you can support individuals, their families and caregivers as they face this challenging journey.
Prevalence and Impact
Did you know that over 55 million people around the world are living with dementia? It’s a pretty staggering figure. According to a 2024 report by Alzheimer’s Society, one in three people born today in the UK will develop dementia at some point in their lives. And that number is expected to rise by 1.4 million by 2040. Around 900,000 individuals in the UK are living with dementia, with Alzheimer’s making up about 60% of those cases.
The emotional strain can be overwhelming, and the financial burden is significant—total costs related to dementia in the UK reach an astonishing £34 billion each year.
Advancements in Research and Innovations
Being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can make your loved ones feel as though their life is stuck on pause, with each day blending into the next, overshadowed by frustration and a sense of despair.
Dementia refers to a general decline in mental function, Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of it. The pathology of Alzheimer’s involves protein amyloid to form plaques around the brain cells and protein tau forms tangles within the brain cells leading to difficulties with memory, reasoning and shifts in behaviour.
Even though we still don’t have a cure for dementia or Alzheimer’s, there’s a growing focus on developing disease-modifying treatments. By the end of 2024, UK drug regulators are expected to showcase new findings about new drugs like lacanemab and donanemab, which aim to slow the progression of early Alzheimer’s. Plus, advancements in neuroimaging techniques are allowing for much clearer observations of brain changes, which can help with earlier and more accurate diagnosis.
As we deepen our understanding of these conditions, it prompts a vital question; how can we offer genuine care and support to those affected? Let’s look at some meaningful ways in which we can truly make a difference in their lives.
Support and Care
Supporting individuals with Dementia and Alzheimer’s requires thoughtful care, compassion, and a focus on enhancing their quality of life.
Improving Quality of Life
The main objective is to help individuals with Dementia and Alzheimer’s become as independent as possible. Can a person-centred approach be the key to improve the overall quality of life? Definitely, instead of focusing on what has been lost, we focus on what remains. By incorporating activities, social engagement, and healthy habits that reflect the individual’s interests, we can create moments of joy and comfort.
Whether it’s spending time with family, listening to music, or tending to a garden, these personal touches can significantly enhance their emotional and mental well-being.
Creating Safe and Confidential Support Groups
Navigating the challenges of Dementia and Alzheimer’s can feel overwhelming, both for the individual and their loved ones. One way to help cope with these challenges is by joining support groups. Support groups play a crucial role in offering comfort and reassurance. Whether meeting in person or virtually, these groups provide a safe space where individuals can share experiences, ask questions, and receive encouragement from those who truly understand what they’re going through. This shared understanding creates a sense of community, reducing feelings of isolation.
Engaging in Meaningful Activities
Engaging in activities that help build remaining skills, improve brain function and quality of life. The key is to tailor these activities to the person’s daily routine, helping them feel capable and engaged.
Here are a few ideas to inspire meaningful interaction:
Pay attention to personal preferences: Not every person will have the same interests. Some may love music, while others might enjoy sports or crafts. Understanding what brings them joy is essential.
Encourage independence: Whenever possible, let them take the lead in daily tasks. Something as simple as setting the table before meals can become a rewarding part of their routine.
Tailor activities to their abilities: Whether it’s sketching, gardening, dancing, or playing a musical instrument they have learned in the past, incorporating past hobbies and interests into their present life helps them stay connected to who they are.
Our goal is to ensure that each individual feels supported, understood, and respected, while also finding ways to uplift their spirit through the simple pleasures that still bring meaning to their lives.
The Challenges of Caregiving: A Journey of Sacrifices and Resilience
Caregiving can be an incredibly overwhelming journey. It is a role filled with commitment, but often comes with a heavy emotional and physical toll. It’s so easy for caregivers to put their own needs on the back burner, forgetting to take care of themselves while they’re focused on providing the best care possible.
We get so focused on providing care that we may neglect self-care, which can lead to exhaustion, burnout, and feelings of isolation. This is why support services like counselling, respite care, and caregiver support groups are essential—they remind us that we are not alone and provide a space to recharge.
If a partner takes on the role of a caregiver for someone with Dementia or Alzheimer’s, it becomes a deeply personal journey for both of the individuals. As much as they may feel committed to providing the best care, the challenges can weigh heavily on them.
Caregiving is a vital and selfless role, but it’s essential to remind a partner or loved one that caring for themselves is just as important as caring for others. Together, navigate these challenges, ensuring they don’t feel the weight of caregiving entirely on their own.
Raising Awareness: Shaping a Brighter Future for Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Raising awareness about Dementia and Alzheimer’s is more important than ever. Have you ever thought about how early detection could change the course of someone’s journey or how much of a difference understanding and support can make for families and caregivers? By talking about it openly, we can help people recognize the signs sooner and break down the stigma that often surrounds it.
There are numerous ways to raise awareness, whether it’s through public speaking, distributing informational leaflets, or getting involved in community events. Every bit helps, and these small actions can make a big difference in building a more understanding and supportive community.As we observe World Alzheimer’s Month 2024, let’s ask ourselves: What role can each of us play in promoting awareness and creating a future where those living with Dementia and Alzheimer’s feel understood and supported? By raising awareness, we can challenge the stigma that surrounds it, while volunteering and educating others will help in creating a future where they feel valued. At Batley Pharmacy, we provide tailored health advice and resources to help manage daily challenges for individuals with Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease through the NHS Health Advice and Self Care Service.Together, we can make a real difference and move toward a brighter, more compassionate future.