I’m still young, should I worry about dementia? — Syamimi Shamsuddin

August 19 — Dementia is often thought of as an inevitable consequence of aging, but the truth is that protecting our brain should start well before old age. Many of the habits that keep our heart healthy, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol, can also promote brain health.

Occasional forgetfulness, like misplacing keys or struggling to recall a recent thought, is common and usually not a cause for concern. However, dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, behavior, communication, and eventually a person's ability to perform daily tasks independently. Young adults may be more inclined to ask if they are too young to worry about dementia, rather than focusing on what they can do today to protect their brain for tomorrow.

A recent visit to the Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia highlighted the growing concern for people with dementia and their families. In Malaysia, dementia is sometimes referred to as "nyanyuk," a term that may lead to dismissing symptoms as a normal part of aging. Dementia is more than occasional forgetfulness; it can significantly impact a person's ability to communicate, make decisions, recognize surroundings, and perform everyday activities.

When someone develops dementia, the entire family can be affected, with spouses and children often taking on caregiving responsibilities while managing their own lives. Stronger support systems and greater public understanding are essential for families facing dementia. The National Health and Morbidity Survey 2018 revealed that 8.5% of Malaysians aged 60 and above may have probable dementia, a statistic that will only increase as Malaysia's population ages.

Younger Malaysians should not wait until old age to start thinking about brain health. Lifestyle choices such as regular physical activity, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and managing chronic conditions can significantly impact brain health. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities and maintaining social connections are also crucial.

While we cannot change aging or genetics, many factors influencing brain health are within our control. The goal should be to raise awareness about brain health and reduce stigma, ensuring that people living with dementia are treated with dignity and receive the support they need. Worrying about dementia is not necessary, but awareness is.

Let us focus on creating a future where we can cherish the memories, personality, and sense of self that make life worth living.