Muthithi: Kenyans have been urged to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding dementia and instead help create awareness on the condition that is associated with brain cell damage. The condition, which presents itself through loss of memory, language, problem-solving skills, and other thinking abilities, can significantly affect a victim’s daily life, relationships, and activities.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking during the launch of a campaign to create awareness on dementia by Mercy Hand Welfare Association in Muthithi, Kigumo Constituency, Ahadi Kenya CEO, Dr. Stanley Kamau, observed that the prevalence of the condition, which is often misdiagnosed, is soaring. He emphasized the importance of training caregivers on the best practices for dementia care. Dr. Kamau highlighted the confusion and strain that families experience when a loved one begins to show symptoms such as forgetting routine activities, skipping important appointments, and losing track of personal documents.
Dementia mainly aff
ects older people, particularly those aged 65 years or older. Some of its predisposing factors include high blood pressure, high blood sugar, depression, past traumatic experiences, social isolation, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Dr. Kamau also called on National Government Administrative Officers to be vigilant, as some individuals suffering from dementia have been exploited by their children, resulting in the loss of their properties.
Dr. Kamau stressed the need for care to avoid incidents that endanger the lives of parents living with dementia. He recounted incidents where individuals with dementia have been involved in accidents due to their condition being misunderstood or ignored. He urged families to ensure the safety of their elderly relatives, particularly when leaving children in their care.
Mercy Hand Welfare Association Coordinator, Pastor Fraciah Kihumba, emphasized that individuals suffering from dementia desire love and care. As part of management, caregivers should offer a heal
thy balanced diet and strive to be understanding and caring. She noted that patients might exhibit sudden changes in behavior, such as grumbling, going mute, or forgetting the names of family members, which can be confusing for caregivers.
One caregiver shared her experience of managing her 70-year-old mother, who has lived with dementia for seven years. She highlighted the challenges of managing the condition, including the cost of supplements and the need for a special diet. The caregiver expressed the difficulty of monitoring her mother to prevent her from wandering off, as they cannot afford a full-time caregiver.
The event gathered over 200 individuals living with dementia and their caregivers, who received food essentials, blankets, and other basic necessities.