September 21, World Alzheimer’s dayit is an opportunity to reflect on a pathology that affects more than 4 million people in Italy, between 1.1 million patients and at least 3 million family caregivers. A real social emergency, which does not only concern memory but overwhelms entire families, often left to face a huge load with serious psychological, physical and economic consequences. According to studies, 40% of caregivers develop anxiety or depression: it means over 1.2 million Italians at risk.
The Italian Society of Geriatrics Hospital and Territory (Sigot) launches an appeal: “Hope in the new drugs is not enough. We need a wider vision, made of prevention, territorial networks, welcoming communities and services for caregiver”, says President Lorenzo Palleschi.
On the therapeutic front, research opens prospects: the FDA He approved three monoclonal antibodies capable of slowing down cognitive decline, but only a minority of patients will be able to benefit from it and doubts remain on costs and side effects.
For geriatricians, cognitive, physical and social stimulation remains fundamental alongside the pharmacological care, still too lacking in Italy. Because fighting Alzheimer also means supporting families and building inclusive communities.
“Hope in innovative drugs is important, but not sufficient. We need a wider and more integrated vision-underlines Prof. Lorenzo Palleschi, sigot president. The priorities are to be identified in the early diagnosis and in dedicated territorial networks, with widespread cognitive centers; in prevention through healthy lifestyles, physical activity, balanced diet and cognitive stimulation; dementia-friendly community, capable of welcoming. and do not isolate; psychological support and home services structured for caregivers. “
“Never forget the patients and maximum attention to those who pay the care. This is our creed and our mission within a complex socio-economic universe-comments Prof. Virginia Boccardi, the National Board of Sigot. Alzheimer’s is not only a medical challenge, but a social, cultural and economic problem that concerns everyone. A civilized country is measured on the ability to protect its most fragile citizens. With the strength of a community that chooses not to leave anyone back. “