Understanding Alzheimer’s: Early Signs, Diagnosis, and Holistic Care

Supporting Patients and Caregivers with Advanced Diagnostics, Treatment Options and Compassionate Care

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. As populations age globally, the number of individuals with Alzheimer's continues to rise. In Malaysia, an estimated 44,000 people are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and this number is expected to grow steadily.

In conjunction with World Alzheimer’s Day, it is crucial to raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis, timely Alzheimer's treatment, and compassionate care planning.

Recognising Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

According to Dr Sherrini Bazir Ahmad, Consultant Physician and Neurologist at Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), early Alzheimer's symptoms are often mistaken for normal ageing. However, changes such as impaired reasoning, planning, behaviour, and language ability signal deeper cognitive decline.

“This is not a normal part of ageing,” said Dr Sherrini, encouraging families and caregivers to be vigilant for signs that disrupt daily life.

Early signs of dementia may include disorientation, confusion, and behavioural changes. Identifying these symptoms early enables faster intervention and better long-term management.

Why Accurate Diagnosis in Neurology Matters

Alzheimer's disease accounts for approximately 70% of all dementia cases, making an accurate diagnosis crucial for effective planning. Dr Sherrini explains that a correct diagnosis supports families in making decisions around caregiving, legal, and financial matters.

Other types of dementia, such as Lewy Body Dementia (DLB), Fronto-Temporal Dementia (FTD), and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis, may present differently. Identifying the exact condition ensures patients receive the most appropriate dementia treatment.

Dr Sherrini urges family members and caregivers to stay alert for changes interfere with daily life that are not a normal part of ageing.

Alzheimer’s Treatment Options in Malaysia

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, treatments are available to slow cognitive decline. Dr Sherrini highlights disease-modifying therapies designed to reduce the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, a key contributor to neuron damage.

These therapies are most effective in patients with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s dementia. In addition, patients may be referred to mental health professionals to manage behavioural symptoms such as anxiety, hallucinations, or depression.

Emotional and Psychological Support for Patients

Alzheimer’s impacts more than just memory. Emotional challenges such as grief, anxiety, and mood disorders are common. Dr Sherrini stresses the importance of maintaining routines, open communication, and involving patients in meaningful activities to support mental well-being.

“Managing these emotional challenges with support from mental health experts and sometimes medication can significantly improve quality of life,” she adds.

Lifestyle Choices to Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk

Lifestyle plays a major role in Alzheimer’s prevention. Poor habits such as lack of exercise, unhealthy diet, smoking, and unmanaged conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure increase the risk of developing dementia.

Dr Sherrini recommends a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and mentally stimulating activities to promote long-term brain health and lower the risk of cognitive decline.

The Vital Role of Caregivers

Caregivers are central to every Alzheimer's care plan. They assist with appointments, medication, and daily routines. Dr Sherrini advises caregivers to also care for their own mental health to prevent burnout.

“Support systems are essential for caregivers,” she says, recommending counselling, respite services, and joining communities such as the Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM).

Advanced Diagnostic Tools: The Role of Neuroimaging

Advanced imaging such as MRI and PET scans, plays a key role in detecting Alzheimer’s before symptoms become severe. According to Prof. Dr Norlisah Mohd Ramli, Consultant Clinical Radiologist and Neuroradiologist at SJMC, imaging allows for earlier and more accurate diagnoses.

MRI scans can detect hippocampal atrophy, a hallmark of early Alzheimer’s. PET scans can highlight beta-amyloid deposits and glucose metabolism issues in the brain.

Recent tools like Arterial Spin Labelling (ASL), a non-invasive MRI method, offer detailed brain blood flow analysis without contrast or radiation, aiding earlier diagnosis.

Prof. Dr Norlisah shared a case where a patient with subtle memory loss was diagnosed with semantic dementia, a rare Alzheimer’s variant affecting speech. Imaging enabled a tailored treatment plan that improved the patient's quality of life.

Dr Norlisah explains that MRI and PET scans play a crucial role in identifying brain changes before significant symptoms arise.

Looking Forward: Hope Through Research and Innovation

Although Alzheimer’s remains a complex condition, continued advancements in neuroimaging, disease-modifying treatments, and holistic care strategies are creating new hope. Early detection and personalised care plans allow patients and families to navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's dementia stages with greater confidence.

“We can now offer better care by combining early diagnostics with tailored treatments,” concludes Prof. Dr Norlisah.

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