World Alzheimer's Day Marked with Calls for Compassion and Awareness
Across South Africa and Nigeria, observances of World Alzheimer's Day highlighted the need for increased compassion, awareness, and protection for elderly individuals living with dementia. Events focused on education, reducing stigma, and supporting affected families, particularly those caring for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
South Africa: KwaZulu-Natal Commemorates the Day
In KwaZulu-Natal, the social development department held an interactive session with older persons under the theme "Ask about Dementia, Ask about Alzheimer's." Civil Legodu, chief director for older persons services, emphasized the growing challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia, noting that Alzheimer's accounts for up to 80% of dementia cases. The event underscored the importance of preserving the dignity of those affected and providing crucial support to families and caregivers.
KwaZulu-Natal, home to 1.1 million older persons, faces a high prevalence of abuse against the elderly. Healthcare professionals present at the event stressed the significance of empathy in patient care.
Nigeria: National Orientation Agency Leads Awareness Campaign in Abuja
In Abuja, the National Orientation Agency (NOA), in partnership with NAIDCARE, the FCT Social Development Secretariat, and various NGOs, initiated a campaign to raise Alzheimer's awareness. A road walk through major streets aimed to combat the stigma associated with dementia. The programme also included interactive board games and free health screenings for elderly participants, including blood pressure checks, eye tests, and blood sugar monitoring.
"Alzheimer’s is not a curse; it is not witchcraft; it is a medical condition that affects the brain. Our responsibility as families and as a society is to show patience, love, and care. They cared for us yesterday — today, we must care for them." - Mallam Lanre Isa Onilu, NOA Director-General.
Mallam Lanre Isa Onilu, represented by Dr Ayoola Abiodun Olufemi, reaffirmed the NOA's commitment to nationwide sensitisation. He linked the campaign to the National Values Charter, emphasizing duty of care and respect for elders. Representatives of participating NGOs advocated for more memory clinics, enhanced carer support, and the integration of dementia care into Nigeria’s health insurance scheme.
Call to Action: Global Awareness and Continued Research
World Alzheimer’s Day, observed annually on September 21, serves as a global call to action to spread education, reduce stigma, and support ongoing research. Public understanding of the causes, progression, management, and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease remains limited, highlighting the urgency of these efforts. Both events highlighted the crucial need for societal support, improved healthcare infrastructure, and a compassionate approach toward those affected by dementia.
