This year I attended the International Dementia Symposium at Bangalore on the 14th to 16th of September. I have have been a participant at this yearly event held by ARDSI (Alzheimer's and related Diseases Society of India) for the last few years, but missed last year because of another conference. This year amongst various interesting and innovative things, there were two that were really noteworthy. First the presentation by Swapna Kishore and Sowmya Hegde, which highlighted the caregiver experiences of dementia diagnosis.

Second was the release of a book "Handling Alzheimer's with courage" by Wing Cmdr Sabharwal, a caregiver for his wife. After returning from Bangalore I read the book and found it very well written. There is very little literature available that talks about the dementia journey in the Indian context, and this book fills that need very well indeed. A Hindi version of the book was released in Hyderabad by the Governor of Telangana on the of 21st September. Hopefully there will also be a Gujarati version available soon. Keep watching this space!!

Nightingales Trust completed its walk from Kolar to Bangalore to create awareness about dementia on the occasion of World Alzheimer's Day. Other cities in India also need to create awareness about dementia and support systems for the patients and their families. Read more about the walk here.

What is the difference in caring for elders with Alzheimer's or other similar forms of dementia. or even people affected by other types of illness or disability, These illnesses are complex and may take different paths in different cases. A recent research reiterates what many care givers know, caregiving in these situations is a very stressful. The report is available on the Carer's Trust website. The progression of the disease is unpredictable. Caregivers may need to understand the issues and need support at various levels. Counseling, medical advice, social support and sometimes even legal and financial advice are important. .Caregivers are at a greater risk for depression. Family members and medical professionals need to understand this and extend their support.

As you reach 65 years of age there may be a 10% chance of developing dementia during your remaining lifetime. If it is possible to diagnose dementia in the early stages when patients may still have the capacity to understand the disease and to make important decisions about their future care, plan for eventualities and manage interventions.

The knowledge that one may lose their normal 'selves' and become dependent also brings painful emotions and even depression or anger. Diagnosis may lead to denial of the problem or even relief at having identified the reason for symptoms.

Sometimes families and individuals try to hide the fact as it may be perceived as embarrasing or there may be some stigma attached to it. However it is better to be prepared. Legal, financial, domestic and family issues need to be resolved. An article from Johns Hopkins, Facing Dementia discusses some typical behaviours and reaction. Awareness is the first step to better management.