Decoded: Why Is There An Increasing Number Of Patients With Dementia In India?

The demography of India indicates an increasing pace of rising dementia patients. According to studies by the Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India, 5.3 million Indians older than 60 have been projected to have dementia in 2020. By 2050, that figure will have increased to over 14 million.

What’s dementia? What is it like having dementia?

Dementia specialists clearly define it as a neurological illness that causes behavioural and cognitive problems and makes it difficult for elderly people to live independently. Although it is progressive in nature, each phase of management can be postponed with reasonable care and a positive environment.

It’s critical to realise that dementia symptoms should not be confused with ageing’s natural symptoms. Early-stage detection is technically challenging, and a family member’s observations are frequently used to make a diagnosis. Withdrawal, changes in mood and behaviour, repetition and short-term memory loss, confusion, and disorientation are some early signs. One could also observe a loss of interest, skipping or rerouting of daily tasks, getting lost in one’s own familiar or local surroundings, anxiety, unease, and discontent with even little topics. Even though the onset is rarely abrupt, one can determine that these are not typical symptoms after further examination and analysis.

To get through the day, people with dementia (PwD) need care and attention all the time. When words become ineffective and judgement becomes impaired, the elderly entirely rely on the carers for further support. In the views of dementia experts, if emotional and social support is inadequate, seniors may experience a decline in self-esteem as well as feelings of loneliness and depression. In such situations, a rapid decrease is seen, and general well-being is jeopardised.

What are the possible reasons for the expansive numbers?

Due to the fast-moving lives of Indians, it seems like fitness is already on the back burner. It is well known that cardiovascular disorders including obesity, diabetes, and hypertension are very common in Indians. Such circumstances have an encouraging impact on dementia development. Family history of illness (neurological illnesses in the family), depression, social isolation, low education, cognitive inactivity, smoking and alcohol use, and low air quality index are additional risk factors.

Is there a way to prevent Dementia?

As dementia experts continue to look at how the disorder manifests, there is no guaranteed approach to prevent all forms of dementia. However, as per dementia specialists, there is strong evidence that living a healthy lifestyle can lower your risk of dementia as you age.

Dementia risk factor reduction is similar to proactive maintenance of a healthy lifestyle in general. In accordance with WHO guidelines, the risk of cognitive decline and dementia can be decreased by engaging in physical activity, giving up smoking, abstaining from alcohol, controlling weight with a healthy diet, and keeping good blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels. The advantages of consuming virgin coconut oil every day and adhering to a Mediterranean diet rich in beans, green vegetables, fruits, and low in meat and sweets have also been established.

Other important factors are:

• One must put in a lot of effort in advance to prepare for healthy aging.
• Reduce financial stress by being well-prepared for retirement.
• Establishing a solid support network and finding hobbies.
• Learning new things no matter your age
• And last but not least, keep your mind active and engaged!