People with Alzheimer's disease are at risk of memory loss, inability to perform daily activities independently, mental disorders and create challenges for the national health system.
Prof. Pham Thang, Chairman of the Vietnam Geriatrics Association, said this at the program to respond to World Alzheimer's Day , which took place at the Central Geriatrics Hospital on September 21. He said that Alzheimer's disease is a disaster for the elderly in the 21st century, the most common cause of dementia, affecting the quality of life of the patient and creating a burden for the family, community and the whole society.
"This is a big challenge for the health system, especially in developing countries," said the professor.
Vietnam is entering a period of population aging, with 12 million people over 65 years old, and an average life expectancy of 75. In 2019, the group of people aged 60 and over accounted for nearly 12% of the total population and by 2050, this figure is estimated to be more than 25%.
The United Nations estimates that by 2050, Vietnam will be among the 10 countries with the fastest aging population in the world. This number is forecast to reach 82 million people by 2030, and 152 million people by 2050. The total global social cost of dementia in 2019 was 1.3 trillion USD and is forecast to exceed 2.8 trillion USD by 2030 as the number of people with dementia and the cost of caring for them both increase.
By 2036, Vietnam will enter a period of aging population, moving from an "aging" society to an "aged" society, increasing the number of elderly people with dementia. "Most patients come to the clinic at a relatively late stage, usually one to two years after symptoms appear," said Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Thanh Binh, Director of the Memory and Dementia Research Center, Central Geriatric Hospital.
In Vietnam, the number of Alzheimer's patients is increasing due to modern life's high pressure and stress, affecting brain health and causing early memory loss.
Doctor examining an Alzheimer's patient. Photo: Thuy An
Warning signs include progressive memory loss, poor judgment, and difficulty completing daily tasks. Many people become confused about time and place, misplacing objects and losing the ability to find them. Difficulty with visual and spatial perception, difficulty planning and problem solving, and changes in emotions and personality.
Doctors recommend that anyone who has been forgetful for 6 months or more, especially the elderly, should be observed and have regular neurological health check-ups to detect and treat Alzheimer's early. Young people with vascular risks such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and symptoms of forgetfulness before the age of 40, are also at risk.
Everyone should maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and keep a relaxed mind to prevent disease.
How Alzheimer's disease destroys the brain. Video: Independent
Thuy An
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