Alzheimer's Day: Need for sharing burden of care stressed
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, September 23 2021: The Department of Psychiatry, Shija Hospitals and Research Institute (SHRI), Imphal commemorated 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 "Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer" a team of doctors under the leadership of Professor and Head of Department, Dr N Heramani Singh made their first stop at Manipur State Pensioner's Union Office at Pishumthong, Imphal.

The next stop was at Old Age Home, Mongsangei Mayai Leikai.

And finally, the final destination was Raja Dumbra Women's Home at Nongmeibung, Wangbal Maning Leikai.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof 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 to prevent or delay the disease process.

Dr Mona Nongmeikapam, Consultant Psychiatrist, emphasised on the need to address care-giver burden and 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 said.

Dr Mona 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 K Nomita, Clinical Psychologist demonstrated cognitive exercises and also clarified doubts of the audience present.

Denish Thokchom and Ranjeeta represented the Business Development Division, Shija Hospitals during the programme which concluded with distribution of pamphlets in Manipuri, multivitamin supplements, sanitisers, masks and refreshments to the participants.

The Neuropsychiatry division of various Pharmaceuticals helped with medical supplies as per need in ensuring success of the event.

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