Report of World Alzheimer's Day

Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia. It is substantially increased among people aged 65 years or more, with a progressive decline in memory, thinking, language and learning capacity. It is estimated that every 3 seconds, someone in the world develops dementia. The number of people living with dementia around the world is expected to almost double every 20 years, reaching 131.5 million people by 2050. In India, more than 4 million people have some form of dementia.
The World Alzheimer’s Day-2016 was observed at Gita Mandir, Moodubelle on 21st September 2016 between 02-04pm. The programme was jointly organized by the faculty of department of Psychiatric Nursing, with III year BSc. nursing students, and Lions Club of Moodubelle. The programme was graced by active participation of people from Moodubelle. The theme for World Alzheimer's Month 2016 is “Remember Me”. Dr. Blessy Prabha Valsaraj, Associate Professor; Dept. of Psychiatric Nursing introduced the day’s theme. In her speech she highlighted the importance of recognizing the signs of dementia. She also emphasized that we should remember the loved ones who are living with dementia, or those who may have passed away. She accentuated that family, society and nation have important role in taking care of their elderly. 

Ln. Devdas Hebbar Secretary of Sarvodaya Trust and Lions Club Moodubelle, while speaking on this occasion stated that the disease of forgetfulness is not only restricted to the elderly people but also is being found among the young and the children. In such a scenario it is important that people should be made aware of the early symptoms of the Alzheimer’s disease and remedial measures that can be taken in time. Students enacted a role play on signs and symptoms and early identification of Alzheimer’s disease, which was well appreciated by the audience.  

Mrs. Savitha, Asst. Professor, Dept. of Psychiatric Nursing enlightened the gathering on identification and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. She emphasized that awareness about this degenerative and irreversible disorder is very important. Supportive care for the patients affected with Alzheimer's and family members who are involved in care need to be the focus of attention. In her speech she also highlighted on Alzheimer’s disease, which is often called a family disease, because the chronic stress of watching a loved one’s deterioration of cognitive function affects everyone.  

At the end many of the audience clarified their doubts and concerns with regard to dementia and its prevention and care with the experts. Ln. Devdas Hebbar expressed his gratitude and appreciated the efforts taken by the faculty and students. Program culminated at 4.00pm with vote of thanks by Ms. Natasha Nazareth, 3rd Year BSc. nursing student. Ms. Gleshma D’souza, 3rd Year BSc. Nursing student was the master of ceremony.