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Alzheimer's and depression, how to cope

Alzheimer's, as a neurodegenerative disease, affects the neurons. Thus, it causes memory loss, since it is the nerve cells that deteriorate progressively. For this reason alone, the person suffering from Alzheimer's disease could feel bad. And this is normal given the various disorders they have to face. He or she loses all his or her bearings and sees his or her life turned upside down. This is the main reason why Alzheimer's and depression go hand in hand. The feeling of isolation is no stranger to this state of mind.

How depression manifests itself

Depression is a mental disorder that affects a living being for many reasons. It is characterized by a loss of interest in many things. A depressed person experiences social, psychological and biological distress. Irritability, anxiety, despair and sadness characterize it. People are often depressed at age 60 and over, which means that Alzheimer's and depression are associated. In most cases, depression refers to suicidal thoughts. The individual feels so ill at ease that he or she is no longer interested in continuing to live. A strong depression generates different behavioural and physical symptoms:

The different reasons for depression in Alzheimer's patients

In the patient, Alzheimer's and depression go together after the doctor's diagnosis. Having Alzheimer's is not easy, especially if the patient knows the symptoms of the disease and the related disorders. And that's what promotes depression. 51% of Alzheimer's patients suffer from it. It is due in particular to the atrophy of certain areas of the brain, responsible for regulating mood. Other people's perceptions and social isolation can also be the cause of depression. Otherwise, it can also be a side effect of certain medications. The symptoms of Alzheimer's are:

How to cope with depression in Alzheimer's patients

A person with Alzheimer's needs attention. It is important to encourage them to do things they enjoy, such as going out or going for walks in the open air. The person with Alzheimer's must not lose their zest for life completely. She must be motivated at all times, the aim being not to make her lose her autonomy. Getting her used to a daily routine will help to reduce her confusion. In this way, he can have points of reference. This is for example the case for meal preparation. Tastes and smells will help him to find his bearings. Alzheimer's and depression do not always go together, since a patient suffering from Alzheimer's will not necessarily get depressed. Training the patient's memory must be done regularly. To help him/her, familiar objects must be integrated into his/her new environment. And even if he or she does not recognise those close to him or her, he or she must always be shown affection. These are things to which he is sensitive.

Preventing Alzheimer's disease to avoid depression

There is no cure for the disease since we cannot control genetics and aging. However, acting on certain risk factors can prevent the onset of Alzheimer's symptoms. Alzheimer's and depression will no longer affect the patient's health. Various measures must therefore be taken to effectively combat the onset of this disease.

Taking care of your health

In general, it is cardiovascular pathologies that favour the onset of Alzheimer's disease. These are in particular:

Thanks to frequent visits to the doctor, it is possible to detect these illnesses in time to avoid Alzheimer's and depression. A blood test and regular monitoring of blood pressure can be of great help in this respect.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle

The practice of an intensive sport contributes to the formation of new neurons and stimulates blood circulation in the body. Otherwise, gardening, walking, cycling, dancing or swimming are activities that help to slow down memory loss. The diet will consist of fruits and vegetables, especially red fruits and leafy vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants. Sleep is very important. It is necessary to sleep at least 7 hours a night to avoid problems of concentration, memory, Alzheimer's and depression.

Doing activities to stimulate the brain

Making the brain work on a daily basis helps to compensate for lost neurons. Games that exercise the brain are crosswords, chess, cards, sudoku or memory games. Learning foreign languages, learning a new musical instrument,

Fostering social ties

Leading an active social life prevents the destruction of neurons as well as Alzheimer's and depression. Social interaction, such as contact with family and friends or a meeting with neighbours has positive effects on neurons. Protection against memory impairment is ensured.