Srinagar, Sept. 20 -- On a late September morning in Budgam, 62-year-old Sameena Ali sits by the window of her family home, staring at the walnut tree outside as if its leaves might offer a clue to the day.

Once the commanding heart of her household, Sameena was known for her bustling kitchen and sharp wit.

Now, her son Shabir speaks softly to keep her calm. "It began with small slips," he recalls. "She would misplace her glasses or forget a neighbour's name. We thought it was normal ageing. Then she started repeating questions we had just answered."

Ten months ago, a neurologist in Srinagar confirmed the family's fears: Sameena has Alzheimer's disease.

Cases like hers are becoming alarmingly common. A national analysis using data fro...