Calls for increased protection of the elderly to mark world Alzheimer’s day

JOHANNESBURG - The social development department has marked World Alzheimer’s Day with a call for greater compassion, protection, and awareness around the care of elderly South Africans living with dementia.

The commemoration was held in KwaZulu-Natal on Friday through an interactive session with older persons across the province, under the theme "Ask about Dementia, Ask about Alzheimer's".

Chief director for older persons services at the department Civil Legodu said the day was an important reminder to both government and society about the growing challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Legodu added that Alzheimer's accounts for up to 80 percent of dementia cases and says it is vital for families, communities, and caregivers to help preserve the dignity of those affected.

KwaZulu-Natal is home to 1.1 million older persons and has a high prevalence of abuse against the elderly.

Healthcare professionals at the event stressed the importance of empathy in caring for patients.

Psychiatric nurse practitioner Wendy Robinson reminded families thatwhen people with Alzheimer’s act out or appear unkind, it is often the disease progressing rather than intentional behaviour.

The country has introduced a policy for older persons and legislation, including the Older Persons Act 13 of 2006, which promotes a developmental approach to ageing.

While Alzheimer’s is most common in older people, experts warn it can also begin as early as 30 years of age, gradually affecting memory, reasoning, and the ability to complete daily tasks.