The Department of Psychiatry, Shija Hospitals and SAHS, in association with the Indian Psychiatric Society, Manipur State Branch (IPS-MSB), observed World Alzheimer’s Day at Auditorium-1 of Shija Hospitals here today.
Former Chairperson of the Manipur State Social Welfare Board Dr Rajkumari Nayansana Devi attended the programme as the chief guest, while Prof. Koijam Shantibala Devi, HOD, Shija Hospitals and SAHS and President of IPS-MSB, chaired the function. Prof. Mayengbam Akshaykumar Singh, former HOD of Clinical Psychology, RIMS, and Dr Palin Khundomgbam, Chairman and Managing Director of Shija Hospitals and Research Institute Pvt. Ltd., Imphal, attended as special guests.
As part of the observance, elderly people residing at Langol Old Age Home and other old-age homes were honoured with vitamins and other gifts.
Speaking at the programme, Prof. Shantibala Devi said families should pay greater attention to elderly people as the number of people affected by Alzheimer’s disease increases with ageing. She said Alzheimer’s is a form of illness that can be managed and stressed the need for greater awareness under the theme “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do.”
Dr RK Nayansana Devi said maintaining mental well-being and supporting elderly people should be considered a collective responsibility. She noted that awareness programmes on Alzheimer’s and related issues have been conducted since around 2010 and welcomed the involvement of IPS-MSB in such initiatives.
Prof. Mayengbam Akshaykumar Singh said Alzheimer’s is not restricted to old age and that younger people can also develop the condition. He stressed the need for preventive efforts to address increasing cases of dementia.
Dr Palin Khundomgbam said nearly 40 per cent of Alzheimer’s cases could potentially be prevented through appropriate measures. He highlighted regular yoga, exercise and meditation as practices that could help in preventing or reducing the risk of the disease.