World Alzheimer's Day 2021 commemorated

Dr. Mona Nongmeikapam *

World Alzheimer's Day commemorated by Dept of Psychiatry, Shija Hospitals, Imphal on Sep 21 2021

The Department of Psychiatry, Shija Hospitals and Research Institute, Imphal commemorated the occasion of World Alzheimer's Day by visiting few old age homes around the state and creating awareness amongst the residents specifically and other present audience in general.

Under the theme of the year #KnowDementia #KnowAlzheimer the team under the leadership of Professor and Head of Department, Dr. N. Heramani Singh made their first stop at the Manipur State Pensioner’s Union Office at Pishumthong, Imphal.

The next stop was at the Old Age Home, Mongsangei Mayai Leikai. And finally, the final destination was the Raja Dumbra Women’s home at Nongmeibung, Wangbal Maning Leikai.

Prof. N. Heramani stressed on the need for awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease and highlighted the need to do away with the stigma and misconceptions associated with it. He explained various tips and lifestyle adaptations needed prevent or delay the disease process.

World Alzheimer's Day commemorated by Dept of Psychiatry, Shija Hospitals, Imphal on Sep 21 2021

Dr. Mona Nongmeikapam, Consultant Psychiatrist, emphasised on the need to address care-giver burden and stressed the need to share the burden of care amongst the various family members.

Some attention must also be given to the mental health of the Caregivers as well in the form of psycho education and supportive therapy from time to time. She expressed hope that with the advent of Day-care Mental Health centres under the District Mental Health Programme, Manipur State Branch, the state of affairs will improve in the near future.

Dr. Chaoba Seram, Consultant Psychiatrist and Mrs. K. Nomita, Clinical Psychologist demonstrated cognitive exercises and also clarified doubts of the audience present.

Mr. Denish Thokchom and Ms. Ranjeeta represented the Business Development Division, Shija Hospitals. The programme was concluded with distribution of pamphlets in Manipuri, multivitamin supplements, sanitisers, masks and refreshments for the audience.

The Neuropsychiatry division of various Pharmaceuticals helped with medical supplies as per need.

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