One in Five Indian Senior Citizens May Face Alzheimer’s by 2050: Experts

Forgetting everyday objects, the name of a family member or even one’s home address suddenly should not always be dismissed as a normal consequence of ageing. Such incidents may be early signs of Alzheimer’s disease, experts warn.

The number of people experiencing Alzheimer’s-related problems is gradually increasing. According to an estimate cited in the report, by 2050, nearly one in five senior citizens in India may experience Alzheimer’s disease to some degree. As World Alzheimer’s Day approaches, the reported rise in cases has raised concerns about early diagnosis and awareness.

Ageing-Related Forgetfulness Can Delay Diagnosis

The belief that memory loss is an inevitable part of ageing remains one of the biggest obstacles to the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.

Experts have observed a rise in the number of patients in Gujarat reporting memory and cognitive difficulties. Alzheimer’s is generally more common after the age of 60–65, with the risk increasing with age. However, dementia can also develop in people younger than 65.

Symptoms that should not be ignored include:

• Repeatedly forgetting the same information
• Asking the same question several times
• Difficulty performing familiar tasks
• Trouble finding words
• Difficulty making decisions
• Getting lost even in familiar places
• Noticeable changes in behaviour

Occasionally forgetting a name or misplacing an object may be part of normal age-related forgetfulness. However, in Alzheimer’s disease, memory-related problems tend to worsen progressively and begin affecting everyday life.

Early Treatment May Help Slow Progression

Neurologist Dr Sucheta Mudgerikar said people living stressful lives, those with uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes, and individuals with a family history of Alzheimer’s may face a higher risk of developing the condition.

She emphasised that seeking treatment as soon as early symptoms appear may help prevent the disease from progressing rapidly. Many elderly people avoid consulting doctors because they believe forgetfulness is a natural part of ageing. However, medical advice should be sought even when symptoms appear mild.

Brain-Stimulating Activities Can Support Cognitive Health

Experts recommend that senior citizens avoid social isolation and interact with people regularly. Joining hobby classes, learning a new language or musical instrument, solving puzzles and crosswords, reading books, writing articles or composing poetry can help keep the brain engaged.

They also advise reducing excessive dependence on digital devices for routine activities and encouraging mentally stimulating tasks.

After the age of 40, people should focus on controlling blood pressure and diabetes, consuming nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables and pulses, and practising yoga regularly to support overall health and cognitive well-being.