Sept 21: Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common causes of dementia, primarily affecting older adults and gradually impacting memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to manage everyday activities. On World Alzheimer’s Day, doctors highlighted the importance of recognising early warning signs, timely medical evaluation and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits to support brain health.
Forgetfulness is often considered a normal part of ageing, but persistent or worsening memory problems should not be ignored. Repeatedly asking the same questions, forgetting recent conversations, getting confused in familiar places, difficulty managing routine tasks and noticeable changes in behaviour can indicate that a person needs medical assessment.
Dr Chirag Gupta, Senior Consultant – Neurology, Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Omega 1, Greater Noida, said, “Memory lapses can happen with normal ageing, but when forgetfulness becomes frequent and starts affecting everyday life, it should not be ignored. Repeatedly asking the same questions, forgetting recent conversations, getting confused in familiar places, difficulty managing routine tasks, or noticeable changes in behaviour can be warning signs that require medical evaluation. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, poor sleep and depression can also affect memory and cognitive function, making timely assessment important. During an evaluation, we look at the patient’s medical history, medications, daily functioning and cognitive abilities, and may recommend blood tests or brain imaging when required. While Alzheimer’s disease currently has no complete cure, early diagnosis can help with symptom management and, in selected patients with early disease, newer treatments may help slow progression. A healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, good sleep, social engagement and control of blood pressure and blood sugar are also important for maintaining brain health.”Adding to this, Dr. Prakhar Garg, Associate Director – Internal Medicine, Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Noida, said, “Memory loss should never be dismissed as just a part of ageing. While occasional forgetfulness can be normal, persistent changes that affect daily life deserve timely medical evaluation. Early recognition of Alzheimer’s disease allows families to understand the condition, explore appropriate treatment options, manage associated health risks, and plan care with greater confidence. Alongside medical care, regular physical activity, healthy eating, adequate sleep, social engagement and keeping the mind active can all contribute to better brain health. On World Alzheimer’s Day, let us encourage awareness, early evaluation and compassionate support for individuals living with memory disorders and their families.”
Doctors emphasise that early evaluation can help identify whether memory changes are related to Alzheimer’s disease, another medical condition, medications or other potentially treatable causes. Families and caregivers also play an important role by observing changes in behaviour and daily functioning and encouraging timely consultation.
On World Alzheimer’s Day, awareness around early signs, regular health check-ups and healthy lifestyle practices can help individuals and families take informed steps towards better brain health and improved quality of life.