The early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease

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With an estimated 700,000 people in the UK suffering from some form of dementia and an ageing UK population, a new YouGov survey highlights a lack of public awareness regarding Alzheimer's disease and dementia. When respondents were asked how well informed they are about the early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or dementia, 66% were either not very well informed or not informed at all. Only 5% considered themselves very well informed1.

When asked for the most likely reasons that somebody might not encourage their relative to seek medical advice for their memory loss, 62% percent of people said that the reason would be because they think that memory loss is a natural part of ageing. Other reasons cited were2:

- They would not wish to worry their family (28%)
- They lack sufficient knowledge about memory loss (24%)
- They would not consider memory loss to be a serious medical problem (20%)
- They would not want to bother the GP (10%)

The survey also looked at what worries people most about old age. From a list of questions, respondents cited their concerns as being2.

- Not having the independence to look after oneself (30%)
- Losing a partner or loved one (29%)
- Not being financially secure (25%)
- Having to go into a nursing home (8%)
- Having to live with your children or family (1%)

To coincide with the results of this survey, the 'Worried about your MEMORY?' Alzheimer's disease awareness roadshow will be starting its tour of the UK from 2nd October until 3rd November visiting ten UK cities. The roadshow will offer materials about Alzheimer's disease to the general public and dementia-specialist nurses will be available to offer advice to anyone with concerns or queries.Dr David Wilkinson, Consultant in Old Age Psychiatry at Moorgreen Hospital, Southampton said, "Whilst we all become more forgetful as we get older memory loss can be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease and if we delay getting it assessed it may mean patients only come for help when things have already deteriorated. "There are very clear distinctions between what is normal memory loss and what isn't. Forgetting the name of a friend, politician or actor is normal. Not being able to retain new information, not being able to learn and so becoming very repetitive is not, and when that is the case people should seek help early to gain the maximum help from available treatments and support. There is a real need to raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease so that people know what signs to look out for and where they can go to seek help and advice." http://www.medicalnewstoday.com

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