Yeusvi Flores: Joe Biden and Alzheimer’s

In the political sphere, rumors and speculation about the health of leaders are common. Recently, questions have been raised about the mental health of US President Joe Biden, including unfounded speculation that he might have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects older people, causing a progressive decline in memory and other cognitive functions. Initial symptoms include mild forgetfulness and memory problems, which can progress to severe cognitive impairment, affecting the ability to carry out daily activities.

Alzheimer’s disease generally develops in three stages: mild, moderate and severe. Symptoms vary depending on the stage of the disease.

Mild stage: Loss of recent memory, difficulty finding words, mood swings, and confusion in familiar situations.

Moderate stage: Greater difficulty remembering information, problems with decision-making, and more noticeable behavioral changes.

Severe stage: Significant loss of cognitive abilities, total dependence in daily activities and communication problems.

In Mexico, it is estimated that approximately 800,000 people live with some form of dementia, with Alzheimer’s being the most prevalent. This number is expected to increase due to the aging of the population.

Born in 1942, Joe Biden became the oldest president in US history upon taking office in January 2021. His age has been a point of contention, with some critics questioning his cognitive ability. While he has undergone multiple medical and cognitive evaluations, at his last public medical examination his doctor declared him to be “healthy, vigorous” and able to successfully perform the duties of the presidency.

Biden has had some health problems in the past, including brain aneurysms in the 1980s. However, there is no public medical evidence to suggest he suffers from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.

It is critical to base any discussion about the health of leaders on verifiable medical information and not on rumors or speculation. The dissemination of false or uncorroborated information can have negative consequences, not only for the public perception of the leader in question, but also for society at large, fostering distrust and misinformation. To date, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that Joe Biden suffers from Alzheimer’s, this confirmed through the various official White House statements.

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