As part of World Alzheimer’s Day observances, the THA Division of Health and Wellness hosted a panel discussion to assist family, friends and caregivers in understanding the disease and normalising discussions about the progressive brain disorder, which affects many people in the later stages of life.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder and is the most common form of dementia among older people.
In commemoration of World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21st, Secretary with responsibility for Health and Wellness, Dr Faith Brebnor, wants Tobagonians to understand the disease and to act early.
“Sometimes people become concerned about memory changes, but they delay seeking help because they are afraid of what they may hear.”
The panel discussion focused on differentiating between normal memory loss as a person ages and the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, as explained by medical professional Dr Avion Johnson.
“Familiarity with place. Your dad tells you that he is going to cook something, but you are looking for dad and dad in the garden with a pot. That is a concern. Judgement, poor judgement, mood, a change in their mood, they usually were active, they would get up at 5 o’clock in the morning to take a beach swim, and now they are sleeping till 10:30, and they don’t even want to eat.”
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but Dr Johnson said there are ways to delay its progression.
“You allow them to maintain their independence. If they are able to get ready for themselves, probably take a walk, go to church, go to the garden with someone, allow them to do that. Help them to keep active, help them support their daily routines, help them stay connected.”
Another part of the discussion focused on the need to seek external help.
Medical professional Marlon Johnson encouraged family members who are caring for people with Alzheimer’s disease not to be ashamed to reach out for support.
“Now what do I advocate for? Let’s do a research, there are services out there that you can tap into. Placing someone in a home where they are safe and looked for, you don’t have to feel bad about it.”
One participant said the discussion about Alzheimer’s was empowering and educational: “I am so happy that we are normalising the conversation of dementia and Alzheimer’s. A couple weeks ago I found myself thinking, but when we were growing up it seemed as though it didn’t exist. But then after some thought, I realised it did exist, but by a cruel name… senile.”
The THA Division of Health and Wellness has committed to hosting more information sessions to ensure family members are better equipped to care for relatives living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.