With You in Mind
Issue 2 | September 2024
Hi there! Welcome to the second issue of With You in Mind, a newsletter by Dementia Singapore in collaboration with The Straits Times.
In this issue, we tell you why treating hearing loss may reduce the likelihood of developing dementia. Hearing loss is a significant risk factor for dementia, yet many seniors in Singapore neglect to use hearing aids, which could help mitigate this risk.
Studies show that untreated hearing loss not only leads to cognitive decline but also impacts overall mental and physical health. Despite the availability of subsidies, the uptake of hearing aids remains low due to factors like lack of awareness and the stigma associated with them.
Meanwhile, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals that uncontrolled high blood pressure significantly increases the risk of developing dementia.
People with unmanaged hypertension are 42% more likely to suffer from dementia, while those who control their blood pressure with medication have the same risk as healthy individuals. The findings are based on a large-scale analysis involving 34,519 people aged 60 to 110 from 15 countries, including Singapore.
And ahead of World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21, find out how the National Neuroscience Institute in Singapore conducts local tests on cerebrospinal fluid to detect Alzheimer’s disease early, significantly reducing costs from $1,700 to $810 (before GST).
These tests, which started on February 5, involve analysing protein markers, amyloid, and tau, which are strongly associated with Alzheimer’s.
The local availability of these tests allows for more accurate and timely diagnosis, especially in patients with mild cognitive impairment, and offers a more affordable option compared to sending samples overseas.
Happy reading!
Providing only what is needed will keep healthcare costs sustainable: SM Lee
At the opening of the Woodlands Health campus, he emphasised the importance of maintaining discipline in healthcare delivery to avoid over-treatment and unnecessary cost escalation.
Few use hearing aids despite their role in preventing dementia
More studies are showing that uncorrected hearing loss is the single most important risk factor in causing dementia.
Does Singapore have what it takes to look after the elderly?
Beyond housing and healthcare, there is a growing recognition of the need for holistic support that addresses the physical, emotional and social well-being of seniors.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure raises risk of dementia by over 40%
Study shows that taking drugs that lower high blood pressure reduced the risk of getting dementia, compared with people who did not treat their hypertension.
Singapore ramps up palliative and hospice care capacity
By 2025, there will be 300 inpatient palliative care beds, 140 day hospice places and capacity for palliative home care for 3,600 patients.
Yio Chu Kang residents to benefit from town’s dementia-friendly signs and features
The inclusive features were rolled out following a community-based research study that looked into those living with dementia, their caregivers and how they live in Singapore’s predominantly high-rise and high-density environment.
Affordable test to detect Alzheimer’s early now done in Singapore
The National Neuroscience Institute’s test, identifying protein markers linked to Alzheimer’s, enables more accurate and timely diagnoses, especially in patients with mild symptoms.
Rise in demand for activity kits and games to keep dementia at bay
These products, including board games, jigsaw puzzles, and conversation-prompting kits, are designed to keep seniors engaged and facilitate meaningful interactions with their families.
New emergency alert system for seniors in distress helps their adult children too
Seniors facing a health emergency can press the red button on this wireless device, which can be mounted on walls in bathrooms, bedrooms and other areas of the home.
Exercise as medicine: How to keep active amid chronic illness and other setbacks
Moderate to vigorous physical activity can benefit people at every age and fitness level, prevent and manage diseases and also enhance brain health and overall well-being.
This newsletter is brought to you by Dementia Singapore in collaboration with The Straits Times.
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