지영도영
이른치매 정말 무섭네요 지금부터라도 잘 관리해야겠어요
Reporter Kim Yong (ecok@kormedi.com)
Dementia (Alzheimer's disease) is about twice as common in women. Healthy lifestyle habits, such as exercise, diet control, and journaling, can help prevent it. [Photo = Clip Art Korea]
Today, I received calls from people who haven't returned home after going out. Many of them have cognitive impairment. As dementia progresses, they tend to lose track of familiar paths. Some of these people are in their 50s, and even in their 40s. They're not elderly, but they're surprised, asking, "Already suffering from dementia?" Recently, the number of people with early-onset dementia is on the rise. Let's take a closer look at dementia.
40~50 Increase in the number of dementia patients ... The family was also shocked
The number of dementia patients in their 40s and 50s has been increasing recently. Dementia that develops before the age of 65, the standard for elderly, is called "early-onset dementia." According to data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, as of 2021, early-onset dementia patients accounted for approximately 8% of all dementia cases in Korea. The number of patients increased 3.6-fold over the past 10 years, from 17,772 in 2009 to 63,231 in 2019. When dementia appears in people in their 40s or 50s, it can be a significant shock to both the patient and their family. Their quality of life declines dramatically.
' early dementia ' There are separate genes ... The problem is that the progress is faster
Dementia that appears at an early age progresses more rapidly. There are specific genes that cause dementia. A new pathogenic mutation (p.Asp40Gly) has been discovered in a type of aphasia, which causes difficulty remembering names and comprehending spoken or written words. This mutation can lead to cognitive decline, memory loss, language impairment, and movement problems. It seems necessary to move beyond the management of senile dementia and focus on the prevention and management of early-onset dementia.
Alzheimer's disease , vascular , alcoholic dementia ... Regular cerebral blood vessel management is important
Dementia is caused by a variety of diseases. Alzheimer's disease is the most common, accounting for 65-70%. It is a degenerative neurological disease in which brain cells gradually die as amyloid beta proteins accumulate in the brain. Vascular dementia, a sequela of stroke (cerebral infarction or cerebral hemorrhage), is the second most common cause, and its incidence has been rapidly increasing. Stroke can be prevented by maintaining good cerebrovascular health. It's also beneficial to prevent underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, reduce high-calorie, high-fat, and high-carbohydrate foods, and exercise. Alcoholic dementia, caused by excessive drinking, can also be prevented through moderation.
What is good for preventing dementia in daily life? ?
Recent research suggests that depression and hearing loss should be prevented to prevent dementia. Frequent interaction with friends and neighbors is essential, and those with hearing loss should consider using hearing aids. Physical activity and exercise that involve frequent movement are also beneficial. Studying a foreign language, keeping a diary, and drawing are also beneficial for maintaining cognitive function. You can also record your activities from morning to night in the form of notes. Frequent finger movement helps activate brain cells. Some people even memorize the names of past U.S. presidents every morning. Diligently exercising your body and brain can be a significant help in preventing dementia.
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"Early Dementia" The age at which dementia is developing is increasing
I think it's getting harder
I think this is not a future thing, but a present reality.