As Goa’s population ages, neurologists say families need to recognise when memory loss may be more than ordinary forgetfulness and seek medical advice early.
Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking and a person’s ability to manage everyday life. Alzheimer’s disease is its most common form. More than 55 million people worldwide live with dementia, according to global estimates, while a new case is diagnosed every three seconds. In India, an estimated 8.8 million people aged 60 and above live with dementia.
June is observed globally as Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, drawing attention to a condition that can place long-term emotional, physical and financial demands on patients and caregivers.
Dr. Parul Dubey, lead neurologist at Manipal Hospital Goa, said dementia has become a regular diagnosis in her clinical practice in Goa.
“Based on what we are seeing in practice, I would say dementia is definitely increasing,” she said.
Dr. Dubey said this was a clinical observation rather than a statewide prevalence estimate. She added that a larger elderly population and improved recognition of symptoms may both be contributing to the number of diagnoses.
“Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia,” Dr. Dubey said. “Dementia means a decline in thinking and memory that affects life and it gets worse with time.”
She said occasional forgetfulness associated with ageing should not automatically be treated as Alzheimer’s disease. In dementia, however, memory loss becomes severe enough to interfere with daily life.
Recent memory loss can be an early warning sign
According to Dr. Dubey, persistent difficulty remembering recent conversations or events is often among the first symptoms families notice.
“Recent memory is usually affected first. Someone may forget something they were told in the morning by afternoon. They may keep searching for their glasses or forget messages,” she said.
Dr. Amrut S D, consultant neurologist at Manipal Hospital Goa, said other warning signs may include difficulty finding words, poor decision-making, personality changes and trouble planning routine tasks.
Both doctors stressed that people with persistent memory concerns should consult a doctor or neurologist. Memory problems may also result from treatable causes, including vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders and depression.
“Whenever there is concern about memory loss, it is essential to consult a doctor or neurologist,” Dr. Dubey said.
Doctors may use clinical assessments, cognitive tests and brain imaging such as MRI scans to assess a patient and rule out other causes before diagnosing dementia. Dr. Amrut also pointed to emerging blood tests that measure biomarkers, alongside MRI and PET scans, as advances that may support earlier and more accurate diagnosis.
Lifestyle risks and caregiver burden
Dr. Dubey said several risk factors associated with stroke and cardiovascular disease can also raise the risk of dementia, including uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, smoking, obesity, sleep disorders, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol use.
“The same factors that increase the risk of stroke can also increase the risk of dementia. Managing blood pressure, controlling diabetes, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important,” she said.
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, early diagnosis can help patients and families plan treatment, support and care. Medication may help manage symptoms in some cases, while cognitive stimulation, regular physical activity, social engagement and caregiver education can help maintain quality of life.
The impact of dementia is often felt most sharply by families. As the condition progresses, patients may experience behavioural changes, depression, suspicion or aggression, Dr. Dubey said.
“As dementia progresses, patients may become aggressive, suspicious or depressed. Many no longer realise they have a problem. The challenge is often much greater for family members who provide care,” she said.
She said care should remain centred on dignity.
“Every individual has a right to dignity. People with dementia gradually lose abilities but they should never be allowed to lose their dignity. We must care for them in a way that allows them to live a dignified life,” Dr. Dubey said.
Newer antibody-based medicines, including Donanemab and Lecanemab, have been approved in some countries for select patients with early Alzheimer’s disease. Their regulatory status and availability in India could not be independently confirmed for this report.
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