Anakha Pisharody
(Occupational Therapist, Prayatna, Kochi)
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, affects millions worldwide. In India alone, over 4 million individuals are affected by various types of dementia, and globally, the number reaches nearly 44 million. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 55 million people live with dementia, making it the 7th leading cause of death and a major cause of dependency among older adults.
The Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (2018-2020) estimates that 7.4% of people aged 60 and above—approximately 8.8 million individuals in India—are living with dementia. As the aging population grows, managing and supporting those with Alzheimer’s disease becomes increasingly important. One key figure in Alzheimer’s care is the occupational therapist (OT), who helps patients maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that primarily affects memory, thinking, and daily functioning. As the disease advances, individuals may struggle to recall recent events, forget names and faces, and become disoriented in familiar environments. These cognitive declines can severely impact daily activities like cooking, bathing, or dressing. Behavioral changes such as frustration, confusion, and agitation are common as individuals face increasing difficulty managing tasks. The disease can also impair decision-making, leaving individuals confused about everyday situations, like forgetting food on the stove or getting lost.
With no cure for Alzheimer’s, the focus is on managing symptoms and providing support. This is where occupational therapy plays a crucial role.
Occupational therapy is vital in helping individuals with Alzheimer’s manage daily activities, maintain routines, and engage in meaningful occupations or hobbies. OTs aim to help patients live as independently as possible, despite cognitive limitations. Their holistic approach benefits both patients and families, reducing caregiver burden and enhancing the patient’s quality of life.
How Occupational Therapists Help Alzheimer's Patients:
1. Evaluation of Daily Activities: OTs assess a patient’s ability to perform tasks such as dressing, cooking, or managing medication. They then create personalized plans to help patients regain or maintain their independence.
2. Enhancing Functional Skills: OTs use techniques to restore or support a patient’s abilities. For example, an OT may break down the task of brushing teeth into simple steps, using visual or verbal cues to guide the patient. This helps patients stay engaged in self-care activities while reducing frustration.
3. Building Confidence: By establishing routines and setting achievable goals, OTs help reduce anxiety and confusion. This boosts the patient’s confidence, giving them a sense of purpose and reducing frustration.
4. Environmental Modifications: OTs assess the home environment to ensure it is safe and supportive. This might include labeling rooms, avoiding clutter, using mobility aids, and improving lighting to prevent falls. For example, automatic lights can reduce the risk of nighttime accidents.
An essential aspect of occupational therapy is supporting caregivers. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be physically and emotionally exhausting. OTs educate caregivers on how to manage challenging behaviors, communicate effectively, and simplify daily care tasks. This support reduces caregiver burnout and improves the overall caregiving experience.
Alzheimer’s disease presents complex challenges, but with the help of occupational therapists, focusing on daily activities, routines, and holistic care, patients and caregivers can experience a better quality of life.
