S’wak Health director: Concerted efforts key to caring for dementia, Alzheimer’s patients

KUCHING (Nov 22): Care for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease patients demands compassionate and concerted efforts from all sectors of society, said Sarawak Health Director Dr Veronica Lugah.

She said collaboration is important in improving dementia care in Sarawak, while highlighting the active involvement of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) like the Rotary Club of Bintulu Central (RCBC) and contributions from the Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM) and Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI).

“We deeply appreciate the spirit of service and partnership demonstrated in achieving our shared goals,” she said at the launch of the Alzheimer’s Care Training Programme yesterday, which was officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

Adding on, Dr Veronica said the ‘Train-the-Trainers’ programme marks a milestone in enhancing dementia care in Sarawak.

She said that through the programme, healthcare professionals from the Sarawak Health Department (JKNS) acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to provide effective and compassionate care for individuals suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

“This programme is the first of its kind in Sarawak, laying a strong foundation for future initiatives.

“We are also excited about three additional training sessions planned for next year in Sibu, Bintulu and Miri, expanding the programme’s reach and impact,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of participants sharing their newly acquired expertise with colleagues, in order to ensure lasting improvements in dementia care at their respective facilities.

“The role of trainers is vital in creating a ripple effect of learning and improvement, fostering environments where individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s feel understood, respected and supported,” she said.

She affirmed JKNS’ commitment to advancing dementia care in Sarawak through collaboration, innovation and education, ultimately providing better support for affected families and communities.

Meanwhile, RCBC president Allen Wong cited data from Malaysia Health Ministry, which estimated that 123,000 Malaysians had dementia in 2015, with numbers projected to exceed 261,000 by 2030.

“Sarawak’s ageing population, with 12.7 per cent over 60 years old and 77 per cent aged from 65 to 84, has also seen a rise in Alzheimer’s cases, including early-onset cases affecting younger individuals,” he said.

Wong stressed the urgency for public awareness and proper caregiver training to effectively manage and support Alzheimer’s patients

He added that RCBC had conducted four webinars aimed at raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and emphasising early diagnosis and proper care.

“As part of the Train-the-Trainer programme, RCBC will organise eight sessions including four for state healthcare facilities and four for community caregivers.

“The goal is to standardise information on Alzheimer’s care and prepare trained professionals to act as the backbone of Alzheimer’s care programmes at their respective facilities,” Wong explained.