Alzheimer, regrettably, is a well-known disease. Charities and organisations all over the world want to educate people on what it is, how to identify it and ways we can support both the individuals affected and their families.
Enter World Alzheimer’s Day. Annually on the 21 September volunteers and companies around the world host events to raise awareness of the disease and raise money for charities.
To find out a little more about what Alzheimer’s is and how you can get involved on the day, read on.
What is Alzheimer’s?
Often you will hear Alzheimer’s and dementia used in the same sentence or interchangeably. However, it is good to note that, although connected, they are different.
Alzheimer’s disease is not understood but it is the number one cause of dementia in the UK. What we do know is that it is a neurological disorder that causes the brain itself to atrophy (shrink) and brain cells to die.
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s but there are treatments. These treatments won’t totally stop the progression, but they can slow and temporarily improve the condition.
The common symptoms are…
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Changes in personality such as becoming aggressive or suspicious of others
- Difficulty remembering recent events
Among others.
How to get involved?
If you wanted to get involved there are multiple ways. Organisations host their memory walks, webinars or activities that you can join, but you could also organise your own event. These can be virtual or in person and you can get hold of factsheets, tools and booklets from places like the Alzheimer’s Society site.
The goal of the day is to educate people on what Alzheimer’s is and raise awareness of how lives are affected by this disease. This is an international day so you can get involved from wherever you are.
Alzheimer’s and stem cells
The Harvard Stem Cell Institute is currently working with stem cells to see if there are potential therapeutic uses for stem cells. Right now, it is possible to create stem cells using an adult patient’s skin cells which are then directed to become brain cells.
Alzheimer’s is a disease more likely to affect a person later in their life, so why not allow your baby to have the safety net? By storing your baby’s cord blood, should they need them, your child can access an 100% genetic match for treatments that require stem cells.
If you want any further information order yourself a parent guide and get in contact with us.
Request a Welcome Pack
Find out more about cord blood banking by downloading a Welcome Pack now.
None of the information on this website pertains to medical advice. For medical advice and support with your healthcare please speak to your designated Healthcare provide
