Health Care Agency sheds light on dementia |20 December 2023

Dr Louange addressing the gathering

A call to action for community engagement

Dementia is the seventh leading cause of death in the world and one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people globally, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

In order to raise awareness about the pressing global health issue affecting millions of individuals and their families, including in Seychelles, the Health Care Agency (HCA) in collaboration with the Seychelles Alzheimer’s Foundation (SAF), has initiated a campaign to promote understanding, empathy, and support for those living with dementia in Seychelles. The initiative is also to foster a community committed to research and caregiving.

Dementia is a collective term for a range of cognitive disorders that affect memory, thinking, and the ability to perform everyday activities. With an ageing national population, the prevalence of dementia is on the rise, making it crucial to address the associated challenges and promote a dementia-friendly society, said the HCA.

Dr Yared Zewde (MD), Assist Professor of Neurology and Founding Director of Alzheimer’s Ethiopia, was the guest speaker at yesterday’s launch. When introducing Dr Zewde, Lise Church, the founder of SAF, expressed gratitude to caregivers and volunteers for their dedication to raising awareness about the condition.

According to the WHO, over 55 million people worldwide are currently affected by dementia, with more than 60 percent residing in low- and middle-income countries.

“Dementia, the seventh leading cause of death globally, is a major contributor to disability and dependency among older individuals,” said Dr Zewde.

He noted that in 2019, the economic impact of dementia globally amounted to 1.3 trillion US dollars, with approximately 50 percent of these costs borne by informal caregivers, who dedicate an average of 5 hours daily to providing care and supervision.

For his part, the chief executive of the Health Care Agency, Dr Danny Louange, said Seychelles has attained a lot in health care, with up and running health centres, which is part of the government’s strategy. “We also have plans to improve our health care system/delivery so that we can address the needs of people living in our country. Health for all, leaving no one behind is our motto and we are committed to care for all.”

The HCA's Dementia Awareness Campaign focuses on three key areas. Firstly, education and information where the HCA stresses its commitment to providing accurate and accessible information about dementia to dispel myths and misconceptions.

Secondly, community engagement where the campaign encourages communities to come together and create supportive environments for those affected by dementia.

Thirdly, the caregiver support, which recognises the vital role of caregivers. HCA and SAF will launch support programmes, resources, and networks to assist those caring for individuals with dementia. This includes emotional support, practical advice, and access to relevant services.

During yesterday’s training, Nane Lionnet of the SAF also gave a brief summary of the foundation’s activities since its inception in 2016, stressing on its mission, which has always been to improve the lives of people with dementia.

Among its vision is to help with the setting-up of a specialised home for people living with Alzheimer.

Compiled by Vidya Gappy

Photos: Joena Meme