Noluthando Mchunu
KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane says the department will continue to educate communities about illnesses that commonly affect the elderly.
Simelane was speaking during the department’s ‘Isibhedlela Kubantu’ outreach programme at Sithambi Sportsfield in oPhongolo, north of the province.
She says one of the conditions communities need to better understand is dementia.
Dementia is a condition that affects the brain, leading to a decline in memory, thinking, reasoning and the ability to carry out everyday activities.
Symptoms can include forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty communicating, changes in behaviour and struggling to perform tasks that were previously routine.
Simelane says communities often do not understand the symptoms of dementia and may mistake memory loss and changes in behaviour for witchcraft.
She says this can lead to elderly people not receiving the medical attention and support they need.
Simelane is urging families and caregivers to seek medical advice when they notice persistent changes in an elderly person’s memory, behaviour or ability to perform daily activities.
She says greater awareness can help communities identify the condition early, reduce stigma and ensure that elderly people receive appropriate care and support.
Click below to hear Simelane’s sentiments…
