The Department of Psychiatry, Shija Hospitals and Research Institute (SHRI), Imphal West observed World Alzheimer’s Day by visiting a few old age homes in the state and creating awareness amongst the residents and other present people.
Under the theme of the year ‘Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’, the team under the leadership of SHRI Psychiatry HOD, Dr N Heramani 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, Imphal. And finally, the final destination was at Raja Dumbra Women’s Home at Nongmeibung, Wangbal Maning Leikai, Imphal East.
Dr 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.
SHRI consultant psychiatrist Dr Mona Nongmeikapam emphasised on the need to address caregiver 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 as in the form of ‘psycho-education’ and supportive therapy from time to time,” she said.
She further said 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.
Other consultant psychiatrists of SHRI, Dr Chaoba Seram and K Nomita demonstrated cognitive exercises and also clarified doubts of the audience present.
Denish Thokchom and Ranjeeta represented the Business Development Division of Shija Hospitals. The programme concluded with distribution of pamphlets in Manipuri, multivitamin supplements, sanitisers, face masks and refreshments for the audience. The Neuropsychiatry division of various pharmaceuticals helped with medical supplies as per need.
