Forgetfulness is caused by the gradual decline in memory and brain function as we age. It is normal forgetfulness to find the car keys, to look for things where you put your phone.
This is called ‘Dementia’. This forgetfulness is caused by changes in brain chemicals, wear and tear of brain cells, etc.
Forgetting the path you came from and stumbling back home, forgetting words while talking, struggling to recognize people around you, and finally, ‘Who is he?’ Forgetfulness is now increasing in the elderly until they don’t even know it. This forgetfulness is called Alzheimer’s disease. It is mostly genetic.
Studies show that it affects 5 in 100 people over the age of 60 and 1 in 4 people over the age of 75 worldwide. 40 lakh people are affected by this disease in India alone. Around 4 crore 40 lakh people in the world have this amnesia disease.
Who is most affected?
If someone has inherited it, chances are high that it will pass to the heirs. It affects more men than women. Strokes affect men very early. It easily affects people suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problem, nervous system disorders, alcoholism, smoking, atherosclerosis, Parkinson’s disease etc.
what is the reason?
As the brain cells shrink with age, two proteins called ‘Amyloid’ (Amyloid) and ‘Tau’ (Tau) are deposited in them. As a result, the brain cells die little by little, just like insect-eaten leaves fall off. As a result, memory loss leads to Alzheimer’s disease.
What are the symptoms?
In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, small things in everyday life are forgotten. For example, the food you had in the morning, the person you met, the place you went to are forgotten. The next step is forgetting to do everyday activities.
People at home have to be reminded to brush their teeth and even take a bath. Forgetting to check the account at the store and not buy the remaining change, women having trouble cooking, confusion about road rules, and bank transfers are becoming more and more forgetful.
Next, cognitive functions are forgotten. For example, professional knowledge tends to decrease as one enters the profession. When the disease is complete, the memory is completely destroyed. Forgetfulness ranges from forgetting the usual walking path to familiar faces and forgetting the names of relatives.
When you put food in your mouth, you don’t even feel like swallowing it; They either chew or spit it out. ‘Who is this?’ As much as hearing that, the amnesia will end.
It is the duty of the family to take care of such people with love, compassion and patience. But in today’s environment where the number of joint families is decreasing, proper care of Alzheimer’s patients suffering from self-forgetfulness is very less.
If the person with amnesia is seen by a brain neurologist, he will run some tests and say that the amnesia is normal Alzheimer’s. There is a cure for normal forgetfulness. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s. It can be controlled only by some exercises. Therefore, it is wise to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
How to prevent?
Even after retirement, it is better for people past the age of sixty to immerse themselves in some kind of work rather than stay stuck at home. For example, working in association with social service movements. Importantly, engaging in positive social activities outside of work can help keep the brain active.
Learn a new hobby. For example, going to the library, picking up grandchildren from school, gardening. Getting used to sewing.
It is good to learn a new language with enthusiasm. Or take tuition for school children. Adequate vocational training can be given to the younger community.
Stay updated with the current affairs of the country. For this, you can spend some time on social media.
Talk to friends and grandchildren often. Then don’t expect them to listen to what you have to say. You can learn a lot from what others say. If it is a joint family, take one meal every day together with the family.
Daily walking is a must. It strengthens the heart. A healthy heart has normal blood flow to the brain.
Sleep on time. At least 6 hours of sleep is required daily. Sleep is the key to keeping your brain active!
Cut down on fatty foods and eat more fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, and E. Increase fiber-rich foods. Include flaxseeds, walnuts, salmon, tuna, and sardines, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Grapes and berries also help. Peel and eat unshelled peanuts.
Get a full physical exam once a year. Mainly keep blood pressure, blood sugar and blood cholesterol under control.
Get rid of the smoke. Forget the alcohol.
If you do all this, amnesia will be reluctant to approach you!