Date:23/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/23/stories/2006092324150400.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Dementia helpline launched

Staff Reporter

Government urged to recognise dementia as a health problem and accord priority

Bangalore: The World Alzheimer's Day was observed here on Friday at a function organised by the Bangalore Chapter of the Alzheimer's and Related Disorders Society of India near Vidhana Soudha here on Friday.

A dementia helpline (9342730959/36) was launched, which would give information and counsel family members and caregivers of those suffering from Alzheimer's and related disorders.

It was 100 years ago that Dr. Alois Alzheimer first identified the disease, which was later named after him, and described its symptoms. The disease affects over 24 million people worldwide. Medical experts warn that the figure may increase to 81 million by 2040. The message for this year worldwide is "No time to lose".

Minister for Health and Family Welfare R. Ashok flagged off an "awareness rally", which was led by a bullock cart to show the Government and the public that India was lagging behind in Alzheimer's care, compared to other countries.

Representatives of the society presented a memorandum to the Minister asking the Government to recognise dementia as a health problem and make it a priority area.

On the occasion, Mr. Ashok said there was need for more awareness about the disease and to understand the problems of elders. He said the Government would support the activities of the society in helping people with Alzheimer's disease. A souvenir with useful information and articles on dementia for caregivers was released. Alexius Collette, CEO of Philips Innovation, Rotary Governor Srikanth Chatrapathy and film actor Sudha Rani participated.