This month, it’s World Alzheimer's Day (21st September) and in the Solihull office for Paradigm, we have selected Alzheimer's Society as our chosen charity of the year. I thought I would, therefore, look at Alzheimer's and its impact on mental health for my article this month. Before I begin, I must start by saying that this is a topic very close to many of the team’s heart – and I’m sure many on yours too. We will be undertaking a huge challenge to try and raise valuable funds for Alzheimer's Society; we’re aiming to walk or run the same distance as walking to Munich from our Birmingham Office, which equates to 744 miles (1197km)! Why Munich you may wonder? Well, this is where Alzheimer’s was first discovered and researched in the early 1900s by Alois Alzheimer. If you would like to donate we’d be extremely grateful, you can do so here. As you will know, I often like to start with some statistics, so, did you know? • 1 in 3 people born in the UK today will be diagnosed with dementia in their lifetime • 1.4 million people are expected to be living with dementia by 2040 • Dementia is the UK's biggest health and social care crisis Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that leads to the degeneration and death of brain cells, causing memory loss, cognitive decline and other behavioural changes. It is the most common cause of dementia. The impact of Alzheimer's extends beyond the individuals diagnosed with the disease, and can profoundly affect the mental health of both the sufferers, their loved ones and their caregivers. The impact on Alzheimer's patients For those diagnosed with Alzheimer's, the journey is often fraught with emotional and psychological challenges. As the disease progresses, individuals experience a decline in their ability to remember, think and make decisions. This cognitive decline can lead to feelings of frustration, confusion and helplessness. The loss of independence can also be a significant source of distress for Alzheimer's patients. Social interactions may also become challenging, resulting in isolation and loneliness. The stigma associated with dementia can further exacerbate these feelings, making it difficult for patients to seek support and understanding from others. Many patients also experience anxiety and depression as they struggle to come to terms with their diagnosis and the changes in their abilities. The impact on caregivers Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be demanding, stressful and overwhelming. Caregivers, who are often family members, face a range of emotional and psychological challenges as they navigate the complexities of the disease. The constant need for care and attention can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression for individuals doing their best to support a loved one with Alzheimer's. Understanding the impact of Alzheimer's on Mental Health 16 AUTUMN PROTECT NEWSLETTER Riona Mulherin Director of Marketing & Operations Paradigm
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