Juan Brignardello Vela
Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.
As Christmas approaches, families are preparing to reunite and celebrate, but this festive season also presents a unique opportunity to observe the health of loved ones, particularly in relation to cognitive changes that may indicate dementia. With nearly 500,000 individuals currently diagnosed with dementia in England—a figure that has risen significantly in recent years—the NHS is calling on families to keep an eye out for potential signs during their holiday gatherings. The most recent statistics reveal that there are now 499,068 people living with a dementia diagnosis, an increase of over 19,000 cases in just one year. Care Minister Stephen Kinnock emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, stating that it is crucial in helping patients access the necessary support and treatment. Dr. Jeremy Isaacs, NHS England’s national clinical director for dementia, pointed out that while dementia often develops gradually, the Christmas holiday can serve as a vital time for families to notice subtle but important changes in their loved ones' behavior and cognition. The rise in dementia cases is attributed to several factors, including an aging population and the overall growth in population numbers. It’s important to note that the risk of developing dementia doubles approximately every five years as individuals grow older. With current projections suggesting that dementia cases could reach as high as 1.7 million by 2040—42% higher than earlier estimates—the need for awareness and early diagnosis has never been more pressing. Jennifer Keen, head of policy at the Alzheimer's Society, highlighted the paradox of Christmas—while it is typically a time of joy and reunion, it can also starkly reveal cognitive decline in family members. "A third of people living with dementia in England don’t have a diagnosis. Getting a diagnosis can be daunting, but we believe it's better to know," she stated, underscoring the importance of early and accurate diagnoses in accessing essential care and support. Common signs of dementia include forgetfulness, irritability, difficulty following conversations, and confusion regarding time and place. These early symptoms, often categorized as mild cognitive impairment (MCI), may be subtle and can gradually worsen over time. Importantly, MCI does not always lead to a dementia diagnosis, but it is a significant indicator that warrants discussion with a healthcare professional. The NHS strongly advises that if you notice any concerning cognitive changes in yourself or in a loved one, it is crucial to seek medical advice sooner rather than later. "Dementia is not a natural part of ageing," the NHS emphasizes, encouraging proactive conversations with healthcare providers about memory issues or other related symptoms. As families come together this holiday season, the NHS urges everyone to take this opportunity to observe and engage with their loved ones. By being vigilant and informed, families can play a pivotal role in prompting earlier diagnoses, leading to better management and support for those living with dementia. The festive spirit of togetherness can also be a catalyst for better understanding and addressing one of the most pressing health challenges of our time.