What do you do when you or a loved one has received a diagnosis of dementia? What happens next?
For many, the journey to receiving a diagnosis of dementia is long enough with multiple twists and turns along the way. That’s one reason why Occuity’s technology roadmap includes the ambition to develop a screening device which we hope will speed up and support the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. Despite still only being in the research phase of this project, we do strongly believe that the sooner that Alzheimer’s is diagnosed the sooner that individuals and their families can start to plan for the future.
In effect, diagnosis is only the start of a new journey; a new chapter in our lives for which very few of us are prepared.
That’s why the theme of World Alzheimer’s month which coalesces around World Alzheimer’s day on 21st September 2022 has been chosen as: “know dementia, know Alzheimer’s.” [1]
Interestingly the same theme was chosen in 2021, but this year the focus has moved on to helping people to understand what support might be available for them, and for their loved ones, once they have received a diagnosis of dementia.
That diagnosis can leave people feeling isolated and afraid for the future. But the first message that both Dementia UK and the Alzheimer’s society are looking to promote is that people are not alone on their journey. For many people, the first point of call will be their local doctor. GPs may be able to offer treatments which could help to slow down the progress of the disease as well as undertake regular assessments to ensure that changing needs are best met. They should also be able to provide referrals to local support groups or therapists.
However, the GP practice is not the only port of call. Organisations such as The Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia UK [2] also have a wealth of information on their websites. They also run helplines that can be called on for advice, whether it be help with daily living and staying independent to legal and financial questions.
Promoting the idea of not being alone on their journey, the Alzheimer’s society is taking advantage of World Alzheimer’s Month, to share stories of families which have been affected by dementia. Knowing that others have already trod, or are currently treading, the same pathway can be a comfort as well as providing an opportunity to learn from those who have gone before.
With an ageing global population, Alzheimer's disease is one of humanity's most significant healthcare challenges, so we're proud to support and help raise awareness about World Alzheimer's Day.
As mentioned earlier, as part of our technology roadmap, we intend to apply our technology for use in a device that enables screening in non-clinical settings such as pharmacies and care homes for the early signs of Alzheimer's. To learn more click here
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