The coordinator of the Psychogeriatrics area of the San Juan de Dios Center in Ciempozuelos (Madrid), nurse Samuel González, has pointed out that currently there is no conclusive evidence to ensure that the consumption of alcohol, cannabis, or cocaine is the predominant cause in the early onset of Alzheimer's disease."
Coinciding with the commemoration this Monday, September 21, of the World Day for this pathology, he recalled that "excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption can increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia." He emphasized that "age is the main risk factor," although "there are also cases of early onset, usually defined as those that begin before the age of 65."
"These cases may be related to genetic factors, such as mutations in APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2, in addition to other risk factors," González indicated, stressing that "it has not been demonstrated that Alzheimer's has a genetic cause by itself; but, adding lifestyle and environmental factors, it can influence its development." Among these factors, he cited poorly controlled chronic health problems, lack of physical activity, inadequate diet, insomnia or few hours of rest, and little mental stimulation.
Interdisciplinary Approach to Alzheimer's
Regarding treatment and care, geriatrician and medical coordinator of the Psychogeriatrics area of the same center, Dr. Ana Prieto, explained that the approach "is interdisciplinary." "We work taking into account both medical and cognitive, emotional, functional, and social aspects," and "we assess what capacities the person maintains, which have been affected, and what needs they have in their daily life," to then define "individualized objectives."
She detailed that "we work on cognitive stimulation and rehabilitation, intervention on behavioral alterations, maintenance of functional capacities, and emotional support," and specified that "it is also essential to review medical treatments and detect factors that may worsen cognitive or functional status." In addition, intervention is carried out "with the family and caregivers," given that "when a person has Alzheimer's, the disease also affects their environment."
For this reason, he urged family members not to underestimate or normalize "the first changes that catch their attention," emphasizing that "it is important to consult a doctor and carry out an adequate assessment." In his opinion, "the care for these people must center on their dignity, their needs, and their quality of life," and he stressed that coordination between family and professionals is essential.
Warning signs and evolution of the disease
The specialist has listed several warning signs: forgetting recent information or having difficulties remembering it and needing help from other people; disorientation in time and space; problems completing complex tasks; difficulties in language for communication; loss of interest or complications in carrying out daily activities; problems calculating distances, recognizing colors, or reading; and alterations in mood and personality.
"Unfortunately, Alzheimer's disease is a dementia that destroys memory and thinking skills and, over time, the ability to perform even the simplest tasks," the coordinator of the Psychogeriatrics area of the San Juan de Dios Center in Ciempozuelos has recalled again, where around 60 patients with dementia or Alzheimer's disease are currently being treated, most of them with significant behavioral disturbances.
As he has indicated, "dealing with a person suffering from Alzheimer's requires patience and dedication, as they will need support at home as the disease worsens," which is why he considers that "it is important to understand how the person with dementia perceives their world and involve them in their daily care." In his opinion, it is key to accompany daily care from the early stages and as the disease progresses, while facilitating communication to manage behavioral changes.
Adaptation of therapeutic work
"Our work has changed quite a bit because we have to continuously adapt interventions to the level of ability and the needs of each person," pointed out the occupational therapist of the Psychogeriatrics area of the center, Marina Torrejón, who emphasized that "the importance of working from the abilities that the person retains has also increased."
Finally, the also occupational therapist of the San Juan de Dios Center of Ciempozuelos, Teresa Nieto, has emphasized that continuous training is essential, as it is necessary to update oneself on new technologies and available resources "to be able to provide greater attention and treatment to the users."