OTP observes World Alzheimer Awareness Day
Every single year on the 21st of September, numerous organisations raise awareness on the Alzheimer disease. This is why the Limpopo Office of the Premier, in partnership with the Department of Social Development (DSD), hosted the campaign at the DSD one-stop center hall in Zaaiplaas, Sekhukhune District.
Alzheimer is a well-known form of dementia which usually affects older people, typically those over the age of 65. It is a chronic brain disease that causes irreversible damage to brain cells, ultimately affecting one’s memory, thinking, and ability to perform daily activities.
Therefore, when explaining the purpose of the awareness, the Deputy Director for Special Programmes in the office, Mr. Peter Ramokgola did not fail to mention how important it is to inform people about Alzheimer and how to deal with those affected with the disease.
“This occasion is not taking place to merely tick a box that it has been done, but it’s to leave a long-lasting impact on people about diseases they may be exposed to as they grow older”, said Ramokgola.
He also highlighted how important it is to constantly take positive steps towards caring and supporting those infected and affected with the disease to develop a more dementia-friendly society.
In line with that, Ms. Mashudu Mushanganyisi outlined the services offered by the Department of Social Development including ‘Golden Games’, which is one of the programmes implemented with the purpose of encouraging active ageing to improve the quality of healthy living among senior citizens.
Caregivers, friends, and families are encouraged to remind those affected by Alzheimer of the good memories they had to stimulate their brain functionality. In most cases, Dementia symptoms may vary, and forgetting things is a normal part of ageing. However, the following are warning signs to be mindful of:
• Memory loss
• Difficulty performing tasks
• Problem with language
• Disorientation to time and place
• Poor or decreased judgement
• Problem keeping track of things
• Misplacing things
• Changes in mood and behavior