It is the most prevalent disease among the elderly and the one that causes most concern especially in view of the absence of any cure to overcome it or control the destruction it inflicts on one’s memory.

The causes of the disease have not yet been determined. A number of prominent figures working for the care of Alzheimer’s patients in the Kingdom have urged society to change its attitude and stand by these people in their hour of distress.

Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior.

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, in which dementia symptoms gradually worsen over a number of years. Memory impairment as well as problems with decision-making ability, judgment, and personality are necessary features for the diagnosis.

The early symptoms of the disease include language problems such as trouble finding the name of familiar objects, misplacing items, getting lost on familiar routes, personality changes, and losing interest in things previously enjoyed. People with severe AD can no longer understand language, recognize family members, and perform basic activities such as eating, dressing, and bathing.

According to a global report released in 2009, the number of patients affected by AD is expected to double within 20 years.

Referring to the disease, prominent family and community medicine consultant Dr. Salem Khaleel Al-Dahi told the newspaper that it is a type of nerve disease affecting the brain tissue of people. Twisted fragments of protein within nerve cells that clog up the cell result in damaging brain nerve cells. Hence, the patient experiences gradual losing of memory. When nerve cells (neurons) are destroyed, there is a decrease in the chemicals (neurotransmitters) that help nerve cells send messages to one another. As a result, areas of the brain become disconnected.

Dr. Al-Dahi pointed out that there is no current cure for Alzheimer’s, but treatments to slow the worsening of symptoms are available, and research continues. “Some medications can contribute to delaying its onset, and prevent it from developing. Eating more fruits and vegetable oil is ideal for those suffering from the disease,” he said. Al-Dahi noted the importance of avoiding seclusion of Alzheimer’s patients, as well as to engage them in social activities and mingling with family and relatives. “Family members should demonstrate their love and respect to the patients through decent behavior, gentle talk, and lending a helping hand in doing their daily requirements,” he said.

As part of efforts to take care of those suffering from this mysterious disease as well as to make society aware of it, a number of organizations have been set up in the Kingdom. The Saudi Alzheimer’s Disease Association is the pioneering organization in this respect. The Friends Charity Society for Alzheimer’s Disease, launched by prominent Saudi columnist Sheikh Muhammad Safwat Ameeni, is another one. The sorrowful experience he had with his late wife, who was afflicted with the disease, was instrumental in launching this initiative. He noted that there had been an increase in the number of cases in which elderly people affected with the disease were mistreated or neglected.

Referring to his wife’s ordeal, Sheikh Ameeni said: “After showing symptoms of the disease, her condition began to deteriorate gradually and ultimately she lost most of the functioning of her brain.”

Ameeni noted that the family members had extended the best possible care and attention to her. “Instead of speaking to her, we listened to what she had to say. She often laughed, but it did not take her long before crying. We helped her to eat,” he said.

Referring to the launching of the society, Sheikh Ameeni said that it was set up with the support of the erstwhile Makkah governor, the late Prince Abdul Majeed. “We also received support from Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal in mapping out a working program for the society. Jeddah’s Al-Birr Charitable Society also extended support by allocating a temporary headquarters,” he said. However, he stressed that the health care at home is crucial while giving care and attention to such patients.