With World Alzheimer’s Day just past on 21st September, it’s an opportune moment to shine a light on the crucial role of early detection and diagnosis in managing Alzheimer’s disease. This is especially pertinent for Singapore, a nation with an ageing population that is rapidly moving towards “super-aged” status by 2026. Currently, approximately one in ten people aged 60 and above in Singapore are affected by Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that, despite significant research efforts, still lacks an effective cure. With the number of elderly citizens rising, understanding and addressing Alzheimer’s disease has never been more urgent.

Naomi Chen, Senior Nurse Manager at Allium Care Suites with over 20 years of experience in geriatric care and dementia management, has seen firsthand the transformative power of early detection and personalised care. The rapidly ageing society demands a proactive approach to Alzheimer’s, one that emphasises early intervention and comprehensive care planning. By raising awareness, encouraging regular screenings, and advocating for a holistic approach to elderly care, we can ensure that individuals affected by Alzheimer’s receive the support and treatment they need at the earliest possible stage.

Why Early Detection Matters

Early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease are paramount for several reasons. First and foremost, they allow for timely intervention, which can significantly slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for patients. Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative condition characterised by a gradual decline in cognitive function, affecting memory, thinking skills, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Early intervention, particularly when symptoms are mild, offers the best chance to manage and slow down this decline.

Empowering Families Through Planning

When Alzheimer’s is diagnosed early, patients and their families have the opportunity to engage in discussions about care, legal, and financial matters while the patient can still actively participate. This empowers families to make informed decisions about future care plans, ensuring that the patient’s wishes are considered and respected. It also allows families to prepare emotionally and practically for the road ahead, reducing the stress and confusion that often accompany a sudden diagnosis in the later stages of the disease.

Access to Treatment and Support Services

Another critical benefit of early diagnosis is the opportunity for patients to access treatments and support services that can help manage symptoms. Whilst there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are medications and therapies that can temporarily slow the worsening of symptoms and improve quality of life. For example, cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine are commonly prescribed to treat cognitive symptoms, such as memory loss and confusion. These medications are more effective when administered in the earlier stages of the disease, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis.

Moreover, early detection provides patients with the chance to participate in clinical trials for new therapies. These trials are often only open to patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, as they aim to explore new ways to prevent, delay, or alleviate the symptoms of the disease. By being diagnosed early, patients can contribute to scientific research that may eventually lead to breakthroughs in treatment while also potentially benefiting from cutting-edge therapies.

Lifestyle Modifications for Cognitive Health

In addition to medical interventions, early diagnosis also allows for lifestyle modifications that can have a positive impact on managing Alzheimer’s. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, and participating in cognitive exercises are all strategies that can help preserve cognitive function and slow the progression of symptoms. These lifestyle changes are most effective when implemented early, as part of a comprehensive care plan tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences.

For example, adopting a Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, has been associated with better cognitive health and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s. Regular physical exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can also promote brain health by improving cardiovascular health, which is closely linked to cognitive function. Cognitive exercises, such as puzzles, memory games, and learning new skills, can help stimulate the brain and maintain mental agility.

Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma

Despite the clear benefits of early detection, many people remain unaware of the early signs of Alzheimer’s or are reluctant to seek a diagnosis due to fear or stigma. This is why raising awareness and encouraging regular cognitive screenings, especially for high-risk groups, is essential. High-risk groups include individuals over the age of 65, those with a family history of Alzheimer’s, and people with cardiovascular conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Regular screenings can help identify early cognitive changes, prompting further evaluation and early intervention.

In Singapore, there is a growing need for public education campaigns to increase awareness about Alzheimer’s and the importance of early diagnosis. These campaigns should focus on dispelling myths and reducing the stigma associated with dementia, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgement. Healthcare providers also have a crucial role to play in promoting cognitive screenings and providing support to patients and their families throughout the diagnostic process.

A Call to Action for Early Detection and Comprehensive Care

Let us use World Alzheimer’s Day as a reminder to prioritise early detection, empower patients and families, and work towards a future where Alzheimer’s is better understood and more effectively managed. Early intervention is key to improving patient outcomes and maintaining quality of life, and we must continue to advocate for these critical measures as we confront the growing challenge of Alzheimer’s in Singapore.

Contributed by Naomi Chen, Senior Nurse Manager at Allium Care Suites, with over 20 years of experience in geriatric care and dementia management.