September Is World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

September Is World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

World Alzheimer’s Month is an annual international event held every September and run by Alzheimer’s Disease International. The goal is to raise awareness and challenge individuals and communities to address the health concerns of this progressive brain disorder.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month has been a reality since 2012 with September 21st being donned as “World Alzheimer’s Day.” 

Globally there is thought to be poor understanding and a great deal of stigma surrounding dementia, so the work of World Alzheimer’s Month is vital.

There are growing stigmas and lack of understanding surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and dementia as well as supporting those suffering from it.

The month is an opportunity for individuals, businesses, and charities to hold events and raise awareness and support in their respective communities.  

This insidious disease affects millions, and so often families suffer needlessly in silence. They are embarrassed. They are ashamed.  

Without proper emotional and medical support, many families diminish, and their quality and quantity of life slowly decreases.  

Therefore, the World Alzheimer’s Month stands as a catalyst for change and generates the support of local communities to stand against the stigmas associated with Alzheimer’s. 

Participants can get campaign materials for their event from ADI, and anyone unable to arrange their own event but keen to take part, can find events run by their National Alzheimer’s Charity and participate in those.

World Alzheimer’s Month is an opportunity for sufferers, careers, professionals, press and media and communities to work together against this form of dementia.  

Governments across the globe lobby to do more to help those suffering from Alzheimer’s and families affected by this disease.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month sheds a huge spotlight on this reality. 

4 FACTS ABOUT DEMENTIA 

First of all, it is imperative that a clear understanding of dementia be established. What does it mean to have dementia and is Alzheimer’s Disease any different? 

Alzheimer’s Disease is a type of dementia. There are many different types of dementia, and gaining a proper understanding of this common disease is necessary.  

  1. Dementia is a subtly progressive degenerative brain condition that affects the memory, comprehension, and competency of over 50 million people internationally.
  2. Common symptoms of dementia include loss of memory, difficulty in finding the right words or understanding others, performing routine tasks, and mood changes.
  3. This condition also imposes vast socioeconomic implications, with a diagnosis every 3 seconds, it is expected to affect 152 million people by 2050.
  4. Dementia is recognized as one of the most significant neurological health crises of the 21st century.

WHY RESIDENTIAL ASSISTED LIVING WORKS BEST FOR DEMENTIA CARE

Dementia knows no social, economic, or geographical boundaries. Each diagnosis is different, and every individual will experience dementia in their own way.

Although, those affected are eventually unable to care for themselves and need help with activities of daily living. 

There is currently no cure for most types of dementia, but treatments, advice, and support are available.

Families are usually ill-equipped and unskilled in the intricate care needs of seniors impacted with Alzheimer’s. 

They need help.  

The most ideal place for these seniors is a residential assisted living home. The small, consistent care and familiarity lends itself to the appropriate treatment for these seniors.  

Do not think bigger is better, especially in terms of dementia. The smaller facilities often have a much better result and the memory residents thrive.  

THE PREDICAMENT OF THE PANDEMIC

COVID-19 and dementia tend to be a mixture for the perfect storm. Isolation has shown family members more clearly that their beloved seniors may have profound symptoms of dementia.  

Withdrawal from society causes many to become more forgetful and sometimes disoriented.  

The burden of caring for those affected by the present pandemic presents a significant challenge for family members.  

What has COVID-19 exposed as it relates the diagnosis, treatment and care of dementia patients?

  1. The COVID-19 outbreak has highlighted the lack of preparedness of health systems globally to provide routine services and support for dementia patients.
  2. During lockdown and restrictions, it’s essential that older people, especially those living with dementia, are not socially excluded.
  3. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that people keep talking about dementia, seeking out information, advice, and support.
  4. Do not wait until lockdown or restrictions end to speak to your doctor about experiencing symptoms of dementia. Time is of the essence when treating any type of dementia.
  5. During COVID-19, talk to your National Alzheimer’s Association to gain access to helplines, websites, social media, and virtual events you can attend to stay up to date with advice and information about support.

RESIDENTIAL ASSISTED LIVING NATIONAL ASSOCIATION RAISING AWARENESS

The Residential Assisted Living National Association is committed to raising awareness and advocating for the improvement in care and support for seniors with dementia. 

This quality care also benefits the family members of loved ones suffering with Alzheimer’s Disease.  

It is the aim of RALNA to serve as the leaders in the industry for providing resources, information, blogs and membership-based content for quality care within the RAL industry. 

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