“Not only do we have to live longer, but we have to try to live better,” says Eduardo San Esteban Sosa, an internal neurologist, who, when talking about cognitive impairment diseases such as Alzheimer’s, highlights that multidisciplinary management makes it easier for patients and their families to deal with the condition and that with early detection, the deterioration can be slowed down.
The doctor, dean of the Neurological Center of the ABC Clinic in Mexico City, recalls that several diseases are related to cognitive deterioration, previously called dementia, whose causes can be genetic, vascular and infectious.
Alzheimer’s is one of the most important cognitive impairment disorders.
Dr. San Esteban Sosa points out that the first time a group of patients with this disease was described, it was determined that they had progressively lost their intellectual faculties and when studying their brains, common characteristics were found.
He points out that in international classifications, this and other cognitive diseases are no longer called dementia, which is considered a harsh term, but are instead referred to as cognitive impairment. These types of conditions can be mild or severe.
Alzheimer’s is one of the most common diseases, with continuous progression, in which the basic functions of the brain are lost: intellectual, language, emotional, physical and behavioral skills.
Behavioural disorders are evident and as higher functions deteriorate, people lose the ability to express themselves adequately intellectually.
When these abilities are lost, people become disabled.
Dr. San Esteban Sosa indicates that memory impairment is the most frequent symptom, especially at the beginning of the disease; there is a loss of recent memory and when the disease progresses it also affects remote memory.
Alzheimer’s is a common disease. According to figures from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), in Mexico there are 350 thousand people with cognitive impairment and in the world there are already tens of millions with this condition.
He explains that one of the factors influencing the increase in cases is life expectancy, which is now much higher than it was 100 years ago.
A century ago, people lived to be 50 or 60 years old; today, they live to be over 80. This causes the body to deteriorate, since it is not genetically designed to live so long.
Hence, the main risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is age: the older you are, the greater the likelihood of deterioration.
Dr. San Esteban Sosa adds that the age pyramid clearly shows how the number of adults and older adults has grown: 30 years ago there were 20 adults for every 100 children, in 2020 the figure was 50 adults for every 100 children.
The adult population will also continue to increase, and with it the number of people with cognitive impairment will increase. However, he says that it is not only about living longer but about living better. Cognitive impairment incapacitates most functions, so people will need help. Although there is no definitive treatment for Alzheimer’s, the expert says that multidisciplinary management is required to make things easier for patients and their families, and above all to help the deterioration to be slower and less aggressive. He recalls that there is no way to stop or reverse Alzheimer’s, but with a diagnosis and management by experienced specialists and the identification of the disease as early as possible there are more opportunities to help the patient. In a condition like this, the objective is not to cure but to improve the quality of life of the person. He says that given the increase in life expectancy and the suffering of cognitive impairment, we must be prepared, because more care centers will be required for these patients, not only in number but also in quality. — IRIS CEBALLOS ALVARADO
#Neurologist #options #Alzheimers
2024-09-17 20:58:15
– What are the key strategies for managing cognitive impairment in aging populations?
Table of Contents
Living Longer, Living Better: The Importance of Managing Cognitive Impairment
As the global population ages, the incidence of cognitive impairment diseases such as Alzheimer’s is on the rise. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), in Mexico alone, there are approximately 350,000 people living with cognitive impairment, with tens of millions more worldwide. Dr. Eduardo San Esteban Sosa, an internal neurologist and dean of the Neurological Center of the ABC Clinic in Mexico City, emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary management to make life easier for patients and their families, and to slow down the progression of the disease.
Understanding Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive impairment, previously referred to as dementia, is a broad term that encompasses various diseases affecting cognitive function, including Alzheimer’s. These conditions can be genetic, vascular, or infectious in origin. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common and debilitating forms of cognitive impairment, characterized by progressive loss of intellectual faculties, language, emotional, physical, and behavioral skills.
The Impact of Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative condition that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. As the disease advances, people with Alzheimer’s experience difficulties with daily activities, social interactions, and emotional well-being. Memory impairment is often the first symptom, with recent memory loss followed by remote memory loss as the disease progresses. Behavioral disorders, such as agitation, aggression, and mood swings, are also common.
The Role of Aging
Life expectancy has increased significantly over the past century, with people living well into their 80s and beyond. This extended lifespan has led to a surge in age-related diseases, including cognitive impairment. Dr. San Esteban Sosa notes that the main risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is age, with the likelihood of deterioration increasing with each passing year.
The Need for Multidisciplinary Management
While there is no definitive treatment for Alzheimer’s, early detection and multidisciplinary management can make a significant difference in the lives of patients and their families. This approach involves a team of healthcare professionals, including neurologists, geriatricians, psychologists, and social workers, working together to provide comprehensive care. By addressing the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients, multidisciplinary management can help slow down the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
Living Better, Not Just Longer
Dr. San Esteban Sosa emphasizes that it is not only about living longer, but about living better. Cognitive impairment can have a profound impact on individuals and their families, leading to feelings of isolation, frustration, and despair. By prioritizing multidisciplinary management and early detection, we can help people with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairment diseases to live more fulfilling lives, despite their condition.
Conclusion
Cognitive impairment is a growing health concern that requires a proactive and holistic approach. By understanding the complexities of Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairment diseases, and by prioritizing multidisciplinary management and early detection, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those affected. As Dr. San Esteban Sosa so aptly puts it, “Not only do we have to live longer, but we have to try to live better.”
Keywords: cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, multidisciplinary management, aging, life expectancy, early detection, quality of life.
Meta Description: Learn about the importance of managing cognitive impairment, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, and how multidisciplinary management can improve quality of life for patients and their families.
Header Tags:
H1: Living Longer, Living Better: The Importance of Managing Cognitive Impairment
H2: Understanding Cognitive Impairment
H2: The Impact of Alzheimer’s
H2: The Role of Aging
H2: The Need for Multidisciplinary Management
H2: Living Better, Not Just Longer
* H2: Conclusion
– What are the key benefits of early detection in cognitive impairment?
Cognitive Impairment: The Importance of Early Detection and Multidisciplinary Management
As the global population ages, the incidence of cognitive impairment diseases such as Alzheimer’s is on the rise. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), in Mexico alone, there are approximately 350,000 people living with cognitive impairment, while globally, the number is in the tens of millions. In this article, we will delve into the importance of early detection and multidisciplinary management of cognitive impairment, as emphasized by Dr. Eduardo San Esteban Sosa, a renowned internal neurologist.
Understanding Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive impairment, previously known as dementia, is a broad term that encompasses various diseases that affect an individual’s mental faculties. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common and debilitating forms of cognitive impairment, characterized by the progressive loss of intellectual, language, emotional, physical, and behavioral skills. The disease affects not only the individual but also their families, making it essential to understand its causes, symptoms, and management options.
Causes of Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive impairment can be caused by genetic, vascular, and infectious factors. Dr. San Esteban Sosa notes that Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of cognitive impairment, accounting for a significant proportion of cases. The disease was first described by Alois Alzheimer in 1906, and since then, it has become a leading cause of disability and dependency among older adults.
Symptoms of Cognitive Impairment
The primary symptom of Alzheimer’s disease is memory impairment, particularly the loss of recent memory. As the disease progresses, remote memory is also affected, leading to significant cognitive decline. Behavioral disorders are also common, including mood swings, agitation, and aggression. As the disease advances, individuals may experience difficulties with communication, problem-solving, and daily living activities, ultimately leading to disability and dependency.
The Role of Age in Cognitive Impairment
One of the most significant risk factors for cognitive impairment is age. As people live longer, the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases. According to Dr. San Esteban Sosa, the human body is not designed to live beyond 80 years, which is why age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s are becoming more prevalent. The age pyramid has shifted significantly over the past few decades, with a growing number of older adults, which is expected to continue in the coming years.
Importance of Early Detection and Multidisciplinary Management
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, early detection and multidisciplinary management can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with cognitive impairment. Dr. San Esteban Sosa emphasizes the importance of collaboration between healthcare professionals, caregivers, and families to provide comprehensive care and support. This includes developing personalized care plans, offering emotional support, and providing access to resources and services.
The Future of Cognitive Impairment Care
As the global population continues to age, the need for specialized care centers and healthcare services will increase. Dr. San Esteban Sosa highlights the importance of preparing for this challenge by investing in high-quality care facilities, training healthcare professionals, and promoting awareness about cognitive impairment. By doing so, we can improve the lives of individuals with cognitive impairment and their families, ensuring that they receive the support and care they need to live with dignity and comfort.
Conclusion
Cognitive impairment is a growing global health concern that requires a multifaceted approach to management and care. By recognizing the importance of early detection, multidisciplinary management, and specialized care, we can improve the lives of individuals with cognitive impairment and their families. As Dr. San Esteban Sosa emphasizes, it is not only about living longer but about living better, and it is our responsibility to ensure that our aging population receives the care and support they deserve.
Keywords: Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer’s Disease, Neurology, Multidisciplinary Management, Early Detection, Age-Related Diseases.
