Saiyaara portrays Alzheimer's in Aneet Padda's 22-year-old character: What the disease is, its risk factors, and key symptoms

While Saiyaara, the latest romantic drama from Bollywood, is winning hearts for its emotional storytelling, the film’s portrayal of Alzheimer’s disease in a young woman has raised eyebrows among medical professionals. The plot revolves around a 22-year-old journalist diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s — a scenario that, according to neurologists, is highly improbable.

Experts argue that while the film tugs at the heartstrings, its medical accuracy falls short. Neurologists emphasize that early-onset Alzheimer’s “generally doesn’t happen before 40,” and that “definitive symptoms hardly manifest in a patient in their 20s and 30s.”

Understanding Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder and the most common type of dementia. It gradually destroys memory, thinking ability, and daily functioning skills. The condition not only affects individuals but also significantly burdens their families and caregivers with emotional, financial, and logistical challenges.

In the early stages, Alzheimer’s may be mistaken for simple forgetfulness, but as it progresses, it can impair even basic abilities like recognising loved ones or managing personal care.

What causes Alzheimer’s? Key risk factors explained
There’s no single cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Instead, it develops through a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle influences that slowly damage the brain.

• Age remains the primary risk factor — the National Institute on Aging notes that “the risk of Alzheimer’s doubles every five years after age 65.” This is linked to the accumulation of abnormal brain proteins like beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles.
• Genetics also plays a significant role. Individuals with a family history of Alzheimer’s, especially those carrying the APOE ε4 gene variant, are more vulnerable. However, carrying the gene doesn’t guarantee a diagnosis.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) — particularly repeated or severe ones — can raise long-term risk by altering brain function.
• Cardiovascular issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can reduce brain blood flow and contribute to cognitive decline.
• Mental health and lifestyle also matter. Chronic stress, depression, smoking, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle are all risk factors. Social isolation and low levels of education further elevate the risk.

Having these factors doesn't mean a person will develop Alzheimer’s, but it does increase the likelihood. Fortunately, many lifestyle-related risks are modifiable with early intervention.

Recognising Alzheimer’s: Symptoms to watch for
Although occasional memory lapses are normal with age, Alzheimer’s causes a progressive cognitive and behavioral decline that interferes with everyday life. As per the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging, early warning signs include:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily routines, such as forgetting recent conversations or appointments.
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks, like using appliances or managing bills.
• Problem-solving challenges, including trouble planning or following steps.
• Language issues, such as struggling to find the right words or follow conversations.
• Disorientation, with confusion about time or location.
• Poor judgment, including neglecting hygiene or falling for scams.
• Mood and personality changes, such as irritability, anxiety, or social withdrawal.

These signs can also stem from other conditions like depression or medication side effects. A professional medical diagnosis is essential.

In more advanced stages, individuals may lose their ability to communicate, move independently, or care for themselves. Research supports that early detection and timely intervention can improve quality of life and delay the disease’s progression. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial when symptoms emerge.

Managing early-onset Alzheimer’s: What’s the approach?
There’s currently no cure for Alzheimer’s. However, when diagnosed early, neurologists can recommend medications that help slow progression. Lifestyle changes — such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, cognitive exercises, and managing cardiovascular risks — form a critical part of supportive therapy.

While the average life expectancy after an early-onset diagnosis is eight to ten years, outcomes can vary based on individual health and how quickly the disease advances.