Saharnpur: On the occasion of World Alzheimer’s Day, which is globally observed on 21st September every year, doctors at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dehradun, raised awareness and educated people about the different stages of the disease and guided families on how to be both emotionally and practically prepared.
Alzheimer’s is a neurological disorder that gradually damages brain cells and is the most common cause of dementia. It slowly affects memory, thinking ability, decision-making skills, and capacity to perform daily activities. At first, it may appear as minor forgetfulness, but over the time, the symptoms become more severe.
Explaining more about the condition, Dr. Shamsher Dwivedi, Director, Neurology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dehradun, said, “Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological condition that typically develops in three stages. In the early stage, symptoms appear mild, such as forgetting recent events, misplacing items, or facing difficulty in routine tasks are often mistaken as normal aging. In the second stage, patients may become confused, fail to recognise familiar people, and experience behavioural or sleep changes, gradually needing help with daily activities. In the advanced stage, memory and communication declines sharply, physical strength also weakens. Hence, early medical advice and planning can be highly beneficial for the caregivers.”
Dr. Dwivedi, further emphasised, “Along with medicines and treatment, emotional support and practical assistance are equally important. Families are encouraged to connect with support groups, seek respite care services, and take benefit from counselling. Additionally, addressing caregiving priorities, financial planning, and legal formalities at an early stage can help reduce future challenges.”
Ms. Naina Sharma, Clinical Neuropsychologist – Mental Health & Behavioural Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dehradun, highlighted, “Memory loss and cognitive decline are the most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s and can severely affect quality of life, making even simple activities like cooking, shopping, or managing finances a struggle. Interventions such as cognitive rehabilitation and stimulation therapy can help slow this decline and maintain independence for longer. In advanced stages, simpler therapies like validation or reality orientation help encourage patients to recall basic details and can provide comfort and improve engagement.”
Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dehradun, remains committed to raising awareness about neurological disorders and providing comprehensive care and support to patients and families affected from Alzheimer’s disease. Through expert guidance, advanced treatments, and community initiatives, the hospital continues to empower families to face the challenges of the disease with knowledge, compassion, and confidence.
