The past decade has seen a dramatic increase in the number of patients with dementia and Alzheimer's in Israel. These are diseases that impair memory, judgment, language, and orientation, and present patients and their families with difficult daily challenges.
Dr. Nati Blum, CEO of the Amda Association and the one who leads the public struggle to raise awareness, says that currently there are about 200,000 dementia patients living in Israel, and the number is expected to double in the coming decade. "This is a silent epidemic that encompasses almost every family in Israel.".
She says the increase is due to a combination of longer life expectancy, poor nutrition, ongoing stress and less brain and social activity in older age. "We're seeing more people over 65 developing cognitive decline, but also younger people starting to suffer from early symptoms of forgetfulness, confusion and disorientation.".
In the Haredi community, medical sources say, the issue of memory disorders is still sometimes accompanied by fear or shame. "Some families hide the problem so as not to provoke talk or pity," says Dr. Blum. "But it is precisely openness and early referral to a doctor that can save years of suffering.""
Contrary to popular belief, there are now medications and treatments that help slow the rate of deterioration, as well as support frameworks for patients and their families. It is recommended to seek medical advice as soon as possible and maintain social engagement and mental exercise – all of which help maintain memory sharpness.
""Alzheimer's is not a fateful decision," emphasizes Dr. Bloom. "If we recognize the signs early, seek diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment, we can maintain quality of life and cope with it with dignity.".
In the Haredi community, where mutual responsibility is a foundation of life, there is a place to support families dealing with this type of illness. A small visit, a conversation, help with routine – these are small acts of great significance.
New treatments and early diagnosis:
In recent years, there has been significant progress in the research and treatment of dementia and Alzheimer's. Along with new drugs approved for use in certain cases and helping to slow the rate of deterioration, early diagnosis allows for personalized treatment at a stage when brain damage is still partial - thereby improving the patient's quality of life for many years to come.
Experts emphasize that any delay in diagnosis may lead to irreversible deterioration, so it is important to identify early signs such as confusion, frequent forgetfulness, or changes in behavior - and to contact a family doctor or neurologist as soon as possible.
""We as a society must talk about this," concludes Dr. Bloom. "The more awareness there is, the less fear there will be, and more people will seek treatment in a timely manner.".
Join the Haredim 10 Facebook page >>
Join the X page of Haredim 10 >>
Want more news, videos and stories? Join the Haredim 10 WhatsApp channel >>
