DHA holds Alzheimer's awareness campaign.

DHA encourages elderly to undertake  risk assessment for early detection and management of Alzheimer's.

United Arab Emirates, Dubai, September 24, 2013: The DHA inaugurated the Alzheimer's awareness campaign that was organised by the DHA's community centre for the Elderly at Arabian Centre mall.

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.”

“Nearly 70 per cent of the patients at our elderly centre suffer from this disease. Presently medications can only slow the pace of deterioration that patients with this condition suffer from. Therefore, the role of caregivers and healthcare professionals is pivotal for timely diagnose and management of this condition. Awareness of this disease and recognizing early signs and symptoms is important and in the care of Alzheimer's, family members need to aware so that they can help in early detection of the disease.”

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 aim through this helpline is to be at their service, day or night so that they can better serve Alzheimer's patients. The hotline  provides reliable information and support to caregivers, healthcare professionals and the public.”

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

The 24/7 Alzheimer's helpline (056 3710077) provides information about the disease, medications and treatment options as well as information about how to provide quality care.

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