SERDANG, January 20 - Ageing is an inevitable reality faced by every individual. With age, the need for healthcare increases, especially among the elderly. For those facing mental health issues such as dementia, these challenges become even more daunting. Dementia is a disease involving a decline in cognitive function, such as memory loss, impaired thinking, and judgment. As a concerned society, it is essential for us to share experiences, skills, and best practices in caring for the elderly with dementia.

Recognizing this reality, MyAgeing™, in collaboration with Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Seksyen 24(2), MPP Zon 8, and the community of Seksyen 24, Shah Alam, Selangor, organized a Sharing Session on Experiences, Skills, and Care for the Elderly with Dementia. The event took place at Dewan Cengal MBSA Seksyen 24, Shah Alam. This session is part of the data collection approach under the LRGS Psychosocial and Societal Burden of Cognitive Frailty among Older Persons in the Community study. The purpose of this session is to identify the demographic, physical, mental, social, and economic profiles of caregivers for elderly individuals with cognitive frailty or dementia and its impact on the caregivers. Various activities were conducted, including informative sessions on the elderly and dementia, exercises tailored for the elderly, demonstrations of caregiving methods, and management of the elderly. An exhibition by students from the Gerontology and Geriatrics Club of SMK Seksyen 24(2), Shah Alam, was also featured. Health screenings and survey interviews with caregivers of elderly individuals with cognitive frailty or dementia were also conducted to gain insights into their caregiving experiences.

During this session, participants shared their personal stories regarding the challenges faced in managing elderly requiring specialized care. Furthermore, the session provided an avenue for participants to contribute ideas or opinions on measures that various stakeholders can implement to enhance awareness, support, and access to caregiving services.

Date of Input: 23/01/2024 | Updated: 23/01/2024 | norhanika