An Alzheimer’s awareness campaign was organised by Dubai Health Authority's community centre for the Elderly at the Arabian Centre mall recently.

The campaign was held to mark World Alzheimer’s Day and as part of the campaign, DHA healthcare professionals distributed a risk assessment form to the elderly patients and their family members.

If the assessment form showed that the person has a risk of developing Alzheimer’s, they were requested to visit the elderly centre for further investigation and management in order to prolong the onset of the disease.

Dr Ahmad bin Kalban, CEO of Primary Healthcare Centre, said:  “The aim of such activities is to enhance interaction between the caregivers and the community.

"Early detection is crucial to manage and control complications of the disease and through such activities we aim to empower people with health information so that they can take preventive steps to protect their health and the health of their loved ones.”

Jassem Mohammed Kalban, acting-director of the Community Centre for the Elderly added that in addition to this community awareness initiative, the Community Centre for the Elderly has recently launched an Alzheimer’s hotline.

The helpline provides information about the disease, medications and treatment options as well as information about how to provide quality care.

He said that age is the most important risk factor for this disease and symptoms include forgetfulness, isolation, irritability, suspiciousness and loneliness.

“After 65, every five years of ageing, the risk of developing the disease doubles and almost 50 per cent of people aged 85 develop this disease,” he added.

As part of the campaign, vintage cars displayed the 24/7 helpline number and other awareness material about the disease. - TradeArabia News Service