In Malaysia, it is reported that more than 200,000 people are living with dementia, with Alzheimer’s, a progressive brain disease, being the most common type.

This figure, arguably, is likely underestimated due to low awareness and limited screening.

To tackle this problem, the government launched the Dementia Action Plan 2023-2030 last October that will have a direct impact on those living with dementia, their families, and carers.

Undeniably, for families, receiving such a diagnosis can feel overwhelming.

However, according to Jenny Lim, Resource & Training Manager at the Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM), the right knowledge and preparation can transform caregiving from a daunting task into a deeply meaningful journey.

According to Lim, Alzheimer’s develops gradually, and spotting the warning signs early is important.

“The most common one, of course, is memory loss. If the person is still working, then you’ll be looking into their performance, if they are not meeting the level of expectation. Another one is spatial relationship, depression, and confusion,” Lim explained.

That’s why Lim encourages families not to delay screening. “Go for early memory screening. You can get that done at 1,076 Klinik Kesihatan, countrywide.

“What they do is that they’ll give you a different set of questions that consist of mathematics, language, places, and some cognitive issues like recalling certain things, and colours. From there, they will look into the scoring,” she said.

Once a loved one is diagnosed, Lim stressed that understanding which stage the patient was at helps family members provide better care for them. In the early stages, routines are especially helpful.

“You’ll want to plan a structured routine, whereby they will have physical exercise, and socialisation. Maybe they can join a community centre where they have activities of different sorts for them,” she suggested.

“Cognitive stimulation therapy is also encouraged, which will consist of a different routine, like physical exercise, some homework, mathematics and language reading,” Lim added.

Equally important is creating a safe and familiar home environment. “Start early with changes. Avoid dark-coloured carpets. Use light colours or carpets with a contrast in colouring,” Lim advised.

She said all switches should be labelled, and handrails installed in strategic areas of the home besides ensuring that all table corners and windows are safe.

“There are many things you need to start doing early so that the person living with dementia is familiar with the environment,” she said.

While it is natural to want to protect a loved one after a diagnosis, Lim cautioned against being overprotective.

“Allow them to have the autonomy to do what they can continue to do,” she said. “That’s very important … providing them with the dignity to carry on as who they are,” she added.

Beyond medical care, lifestyle choices also matter. A balanced diet, regular activity, and even certain supplements may help slow down the progression of the disease.

Benjamin Lim, a pharmacist said: “Ginkgo biloba extract is rich in natural antioxidants that support healthy blood flow and protect brain cells. It may help with forgetfulness, poor focus, and mental fatigue, while improving circulation and nerve health to ease tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.”

“Thomson Activated Ginkgo and Circulon use Japanese Activation Technology to enhance absorption, supporting memory, clarity, and overall nerve health,” he said.

But perhaps just as crucial as medicine and meals is the circle of support.

“It’s not just about financial resources,” Lim pointed out. Neighbours, friends, and volunteers can make a huge difference, she said, even small support groups can ease the journey for families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s.

Lim also encouraged caregivers to take some time off to recharge their batteries.

“Daycare will become an important option. But if your loved one is no longer at the daycare stage, then you may want to think about a nursing home that you can send them to for maybe a week or two. Respite time is very important.”

As World Alzheimer’s Day approaches, Lim’s reminder is simple yet powerful: caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is not just about keeping them safe – it’s about walking with them, with patience and compassion, every step of the way.

Find out more about the Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia here.