Alzheimer’s: Fight the Disease, Not The Diseased

✒ Dr. Husna Hussain

12 October 2026, 1 Jumada Al-Awwal 1448 AH

'Yesterday Mom forgot what she said, yet she remembers things from fifty years ago vividly.' Remarks like this about the elderly are common in many households today. While a slight decline in memory with age can be normal, the gradual loss of memory and cognitive ability to the extent that it disrupts daily life is not a part of normal ageing. Such a condition is known as Alzheimer's disease.

While it is important not to dismiss every memory slip in old age, if memory loss begins to affect daily life, consulting a specialist as early as possible is recommended. Proper knowledge about the disease and strong family support will help make life smoother for both the patient and their caregivers.

Worldwide, Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. Although it is predominantly seen in the elderly, it can rarely affect younger individuals as well.

What is Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer's is a disease where brain nerve cells gradually degenerate. It progressively impacts thinking, language, decision-making abilities, personality, and behavior. The disease advances very slowly. Symptoms that initially appear as minor forgetfulness may eventually progress to a state that severely affects the patient's daily life.

Who is at Higher Risk?

Advanced age is the primary risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. However, not everyone who ages will develop Alzheimer's.

Factors that Increase the Risk of the Disease:

• Age above 65 years.

• Higher prevalence in women compared to men. Studies suggest that women's longer average life expectancy and certain bio-hormonal factors may contribute to this.

• Family history.

• High blood pressure.

• Diabetes.

• High cholesterol.

• Obesity.

• Smoking.

• Physical inactivity.

• Hearing impairment.

• Lack of sleep.

• Reduced social interaction.

Symptoms: In the Early Stages

• Forgetting recent events.

• Asking the same question repeatedly.

• Forgetting where items were placed.

• Struggling to find the right words.

• Experiencing confusion regarding dates and time.

• Facing difficulty in managing money and taking medications regularly.

As the Disease Progresses

• Getting lost even in familiar places.

• Struggling to recognize family members.

• Changes in personality and behavior.

• Increased suspiciousness.

• Restlessness at night.

• Becoming unable to perform daily tasks independently.

Diagnosis

Alzheimer's disease cannot be diagnosed through blood tests alone. A doctor will thoroughly evaluate the patient's medical history, memory, cognitive abilities, and behavior. When necessary, blood tests and brain imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI, are conducted.

Tests may also be recommended.

These tests also help rule out other treatable conditions, such as Vitamin B12 deficiency and thyroid disorders.

Is There a Cure?

To date, a cure that completely eliminates Alzheimer's disease is not available. However, medications exist that can help slow down the progression of the disease and provide relief from certain symptoms. In addition, cognitive stimulation activities, regular exercise, and managing co-existing health conditions form an integral part of the treatment.

How to Care for Them at Home?

Patience and empathy are paramount when caring for an Alzheimer's patient.

• Do not lose your temper even if they ask the same thing repeatedly.

• Avoid trying to test their memory.

• Communicate using simple and clear language.

• Maintain a consistent daily routine.

• Use aids such as calendars, clocks, and labeled items.

• Ensure home safety to prevent falls and accidents.

• Provide a nutritious diet, adequate hydration, and sufficient sleep.

• Encourage the patient to perform tasks independently as much as possible.

It is essential for family members to understand that the patient's forgetfulness is not intentional; it is a symptom of the disease.

Can the Disease Be Prevented?

Alzheimer's disease cannot be completely prevented. However, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk to a certain extent:

• Exercise daily.

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

• Keep blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol levels under control.

• Avoid smoking.

• Ensure adequate sleep.

• Keep the brain active through reading, learning new skills, and mental exercises.

• Maintain social connections with family and friends.

• Seek treatment if experiencing hearing impairment.

Do not dismiss every memory slip in old age as trivial. If memory loss begins to affect daily functioning, it is best to consult a specialist as early as possible. Proper awareness of the disease along with strong family support will help make life smoother for both the patient and their caregivers.

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