Dementia is not a specific disease but it is a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interferes with doing everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. Though dementia mostly affects older adults, it is not a part of normal aging.
World Health Organisation (WHO) defines dementia as a complex and debilitating neurological disorder which has become a pressing global health concern.
With an estimated 55 million people living with dementia worldwide and nearly 10 million new cases every year, this condition poses a significant threat to individuals, families, and healthcare systems.
The White House endured a sleepless night following President Joe Biden‘s stutter-filled and challenging performance in the presidential debate in Atlanta recently.
Within the Democratic Party, calls for Biden’s resignation have surfaced and rumors are spreading globally about his deteriorating cognitive function and the possibility of dementia.
This is evidence enough to highlight that the silent epidemic seriously affects from all walks of life, the poor and the rich, the powerful and the powerless and action need to be taken swiftly.
This in-depth analysis will delve into the world of dementia, exploring its definition, types, causes, symptoms, and diagnosis. It will also examine the global prevalence, economic burden, and stigma surrounding dementia, as well as highlight prominent figures who have struggled with this condition.
Definition and Types of Dementia
Dementia is a broad term that encompasses a range of cognitive disorders characterised by memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behavior and mood. The most common types of dementia are:
- Alzheimer’s disease (60-80% of cases)
- Vascular dementia (10-20% of cases)
- Lewy body dementia (5-10% of cases)
- Frontotemporal dementia (2-5% of cases)
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact causes of dementia remain unclear, research has identified several risk factors, including:
- Age (risk increases after 65)
- Family history
- Genetics
- Lifestyle factors (physical inactivity, smoking, poor diet)
- Medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, stroke)
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Changes in mood and behaviour which sometimes can even happen before memory problems occur. Symptoms get worse over time. Eventually, most people with dementia will need others to help with daily activities.
Dementia’s symptoms vary across individuals and types, but common signs include:
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Difficulty with communication and problem-solving
- Mood changes and personality shifts
- Disorientation and difficulty with daily activities
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation, including:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Laboratory tests (blood work, imaging)
- Cognitive and neuropsychological assessments
- Genetic testing (in some cases)
The silent epidemic affects each person in a different way, depending upon the underlying causes, other health conditions and the person’s cognitive functioning before becoming ill.
Most symptoms become worse over time, while others might disappear or only occur in the later stages of dementia.
As the disease progresses, the need for help with personal care increases.
People with dementia may not be able to recognise family members or friends, develop difficulties moving around, lose control over their bladder and bowls, have trouble eating and drinking and experience behaviour changes such as aggression that are distressing to the person with dementia as well as those around them
Global Prevalence and Economic Burden
The silent epidemic affects individuals from all walks of life, with the global prevalence expected to triple by 2050.
Women are disproportionately affected by dementia, both directly and indirectly. Women experience higher disability-adjusted life years and mortality due to dementia, but also provide 70% of care hours for people living with dementia.
The economic burden of dementia is staggering, with estimated annual costs of over $1 trillion.
In 2019, dementia cost economies globally 1.3 trillion US dollars, approximately 50% of these costs are attributable to care provided by informal carers (e.g. family members and close friends), who provide on average 5 hours of care and supervision per day.
Regional Prevalence:
- Western Europe: 7.4%
- North America: 6.4%
- Latin America: 5.6%
- Asia: 4.6%
- Africa: 3.4%
Economic Burden:
- Healthcare costs: 40%
- Informal care: 30%
- Direct medical costs: 20%
- Indirect costs (lost productivity): 10%
Prominent Figures Who Were Affected with Dementia
Several high-profile individuals have publicly shared their experiences with dementia, raising awareness and reducing stigma:
- Ronald Reagan (former US President)
- Glen Campbell (musician)
- Jimmy Stewart (actor)
- Iris Murdoch (author)
- Charlton Heston (actor)
- Tony Bennett (musician)
- Margaret Thatcher (former UK Prime Minister)
Stigma and Awareness
Dementia-related stigma remains a significant barrier to diagnosis, care, and support. Efforts to increase awareness and understanding are crucial:
- Education and awareness campaigns
- Celebrity advocacy
- Community engagement and support groups
- Healthcare provider training and resources
Treatment and care
There is no cure for the epidemic, but a lot can be done to support both people living with the illness and those who care for them.
People with dementia can take steps to maintain their quality of life and promote their well-being by:
- being physically active
- taking part in activities and social interactions that stimulate the brain and maintain daily function.
In addition, some medications can help manage dementia symptoms.
If people living with the epidemic are at risk of hurting themselves or others, medicines like haloperidol and risperidone can help, but these should never be used as the first treatment.
Dementia is currently the seventh leading cause of death and one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people globally.
Conclusion
Dementia is a complex and multifaceted condition that demands attention, understanding, and support.
By exploring its definition, types, causes, symptoms, and diagnosis, as well as its global prevalence, economic burden, and stigma, we can work towards creating a more dementia-friendly world.
The stories of prominent figures who have struggled with dementia serve as a reminder that this condition affects individuals from all walks of life, and that together, we can make a difference.