Dr. L N Tripathy, Senior Vice Chairman, Director, and Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon at Medica

Hospital said, “We observe World Alzheimer’s Month in September, and September 21st is

designated as World Alzheimer’s Day each year. Alzheimer’s disease is the country’s 6th largest

cause of mortality. It is the 7th most lethal in the world. Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that

affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It most commonly affects older adults during their mid-

60s. After the age of 60, 10 out of 1000 persons in the country suffer from this condition. It

gradually deteriorates memory and mental abilities, as well as the capacity to execute the most

basic tasks. Though the diagnosis is challenging, once certified by professional neurologists,

support is essential. Alzheimer’s and dementia care also requires patience and flexibility. The

patient must be given certain prescribed medicines on time, a balanced diet is crucial, and

smoking and alcohol usage must be restrained. Alzheimer is not completely curable, but it

sometimes can be kept within control due to the love & affection by the caregivers. There are

several support groups around the country that may be contacted for patients who do not have a

caregiver at home. The rate of progression for Alzheimer’s disease varies widely. On average,

people with Alzheimer’s disease live between 3 and 11 years after diagnosis, but some survive 20

years or more. The degree of deterioration at the time of diagnosis can have an impact on life

expectancy. So, let us all work together to form more and more support groups and raise

awareness of this