Manipur: IMPHAL, September 21: Treating a patient with care and love is one of the most important thing needed while dealing with a person suffering from Alzheimer. This was stated by state Social Welfare Minister AK Mirabai while attending the world Alzheimer’s Day observation held at Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Science (JNIMS) Lecture Hall today.
Speaking as the chief guest of today’s function, Mirabai elaborated upon the role of community in helping patients. Stating that aged home is a must for all, the Minister said that the department has passed an act to felicitate the aged to lead a normal life.
The government is also opening tribunal centers in the nine hill districts to look after the grievances faced by the aged community, she added.
Mentioned may be made that September 21 is observed as the World Alzheimer’s Day.
Alzheimer is a degenerative disease when a person becomes old. It is characterized by consciousness, degeneration and lost of memory.
Highlighting the disease has affected about 3.5 million in 2010 worldwide; Dr K Shantibala said the infection will double by 2030.
Though Alzheimer patient normally survives a maximum of 8 years in normal condition, a patient survives upto 20 years under intense care, he said.
Speaking as guest of honour of the function, Shantibala however cautioned that caretakers of the patient also need medical care from time to time. The government must take initiatives, she added.
While appreciating the role women played in the family, MLA O Landhoni stated the need to understand the issue. She said, “The younger generation of house wifes needs to understand their in-laws. Understanding the patient will always minimize the disease in a long run.”
Today’s function was also attended by Chairperson of Manipur State Social Welfare, RK Nayansana Devi and Prof of JNIMS, Dr M Shyamo Singh. They also spoke on wide range of topics focusing on the topic.
