How I'm preparing to get Alzheimer's - Alanna Shaikh

TL;DR

The speaker shares their personal journey with their father's Alzheimer's disease and how they are preparing themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally for the possibility of developing the disease.

Transcript

I'd like to talk about my dad my dad has Alzheimer's disease he started showing the symptoms about 12 years ago and he was officially diagnosed in 2005 now he's really pretty sick he needs help eating he needs help getting dressed he doesn't really know where he is or when it is and it's been really really hard my dad was my hero and my mentor for ... Read More

Key Insights

• 👯 Alzheimer's disease affects a significant number of people globally and is expected to increase in prevalence in the coming years.
• 😨 Denial or prevention are common reactions to the fear of dementia, but there is no foolproof method to prevent it.
• 💍 Engaging in familiar activities can bring happiness and make caregiving easier.
• 💪 Physical symptoms of Alzheimer's can include loss of balance and muscle tremors.
• 💪 Engaging in activities that improve balance and increase muscle strength can help counteract these symptoms.
• 🥰 Kindness and love remain even in the face of cognitive decline.
• 🔇 The speaker seeks to develop these qualities in themselves to better cope with the potential challenges of Alzheimer's.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are some common reactions to the fear of dementia?

Many people either deny the possibility of it happening to them or believe that they can prevent it by leading a healthy lifestyle. However, research shows that there is no guarantee of complete prevention.

Q: How is the speaker preparing for Alzheimer's disease?

The speaker is focusing on three aspects: changing their hobbies to engage in activities that are familiar and enjoyable, building physical strength to counteract physical symptoms, and striving to become a kinder and more loving person.

Q: Why is engaging in activities important for individuals with dementia?

Engaging in activities can bring happiness, improve the quality of life, and potentially slow down the progression of the disease. It also makes it easier for caregivers to provide assistance.

Q: What are some physical symptoms of Alzheimer's disease?

In addition to cognitive decline, physical symptoms can include loss of balance, muscle tremors, and decreased mobility. These symptoms can be addressed through activities like yoga and weight-bearing exercises.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker's father has Alzheimer's disease, and they have witnessed his decline over the past decade.

• They emphasize that dementia affects millions of people globally and that the number is expected to double by 2030.

• The speaker discusses the common responses of denial or prevention but seeks a third way by preparing themselves for the possibility of developing Alzheimer's disease.