Neurology Specialist Dr. Ozan Akyürekli at Private Izmir Gazi Hospital stated that according to World Health Organization (WHO) data, there are nearly 50 million Alzheimer patients in the world and said, "These people should not be isolated from social life. In our society, due to respect for elders, they are often over-protected and not allowed to do any chores. However, we do not recommend behaving this way towards an Alzheimer patient. Let them do whatever work they can that does not pose a threat to them. You should only help where they cannot manage.""
Quality of Life Can Be Increased with Early Diagnosis
Stating that Alzheimer's is a progressive disease with no definitive cure, Dr. Ozan Akyürekli said, "This disease affects both the patient and their relatives. Like other diseases, it cannot be completely cured but can be controlled with early diagnosis. The living standards of the patient can be raised by increasing their comfort of life. Generally, Alzheimer patients become isolated. Some patients never see a doctor. Patients isolate themselves to avoid negative comments from the environment, and no one wants to admit a diagnosis of Alzheimer's for themselves or their relatives. About 50% of patients who are diagnosed stop treatment after a while.""
Awareness Should Be Created
Indicating the importance of creating awareness against Alzheimer's disease in society, Dr. Ozan Akyürekli said, "Alzheimer's can start between the ages of 40-60. The frequency of occurrence increases as age advances. While the frequency is around 1% at age 60, it reaches 20% by the age of 85. This disease is insidious and progressive. Actually, the diagnosis of this disease starts at home. Family members must be good observers because patients do not accept that they are ill. Usually, others notice it. For example, a small test can be done every year to simply screen for the disease. Three questions should be answered: What is the difference between the patient's condition last year and today? Is there a skill the patient could do last year but cannot do this year? If so, is there a valid reason for this? If your answers make you suspicious, a doctor should be consulted."
What is the Treatment for Alzheimer's?
Noting that there is currently no proven, definitive cure for Alzheimer's, Dr. Ozan Akyürekli stated, "Patients are followed up with medical treatment. However, I think the most important part in the treatment of the disease is the change in living standards and the enrichment of life. In our society, elders are served because they are our elders. However, it is to the patient's advantage to do whatever work they can without getting harmed. The patient should get involved in daily activities; this contributes to their brain functions working. For example, some patients play with Legos. Some knit. Some help with food preparation. At the very least, even if aimlessly, they change the location of items. Even if it is the smallest task they can do, the patient should do it. These patients should be actively in life. The life of the caregiver and the patient usually passes within four walls. We do not want this. We prefer patients to socialize. There are now centers for these patients where they participate in active life. Leading an active life reduces the risk of Alzheimer's. The patient should exercise as much as they are able and capable of.""