Saturday, September 21 is World Alzheimer’s Day, a day where we reflect together on the enormous impact of dementia! A report recently presented by the Alzheimer Europe association estimates that 8.8 million people in the European Union are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease. It is estimated that more than 16 million people will suffer from it by 2050!
What is dementia?
Dementia is a collective name for more than fifty brain diseases. It is the name for a combination of symptoms (a syndrome) in which the brain can no longer process information properly. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia. Dementia develops slowly, often over a period of decades. There is no one cause of dementia, but over the years more and more risk factors have become known that increase the risk of dementia, including an unhealthy lifestyle, heredity and other diseases and conditions.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s
Most people immediately think of memory problems when they think of Alzheimer’s. And that’s right! But other symptoms may also occur, including disorientation in time and place, difficulty with language and speech, and difficulty with everyday activities.
Did you know?
Scientists think we can prevent dementia if we live healthier lives, which could mean 30 percent fewer cases of the disease! The most important risk factors for dementia include high blood pressure, obesity, alcohol, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, unhealthy diet, little exercise and few social contacts.
Don’t forget me!
WTC Amsterdam believes it is important to create more awareness for the subject of Alzheimer’s. How we can recognize symptoms, how we can deal with Alzheimer’s and just as importantly, how we can prevent Alzheimer’s!
From Monday, September 16, the ‘Imagine going white and..’ campaign will be on display at various locations in WTC Amsterdam. In addition, volunteers will be present during the FitLife Fair on Tuesday, September 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. who will give a brief explanation and hand out a ‘Forget-me-not’ bracelet or key ring!