Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation has called for collaboration in creating awareness towards ending the mistreatment, neglect and exploitation of the elderly.
Former Minister of Women Affairs and proprietress of the foundation, Iyom Josephine Anenih, made the call when she led a delegation of the foundation to pay a courtesy visit to the Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service, Sir Chido Obidiegwu, in Awka.
According to the former Minister, there is need to cater to the needs of aged and address the impacts of dementia in the society.
She explained that because of lack of knowledge and awareness, many people find it very difficult to understand what is going on with people suffering from dementia, saying that affected individuals are usually described as people who have mental disorders, and are so maltreated or seen as witches and wizards.
She said that her Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation believes that the first thing that needs to be done “is to enlighten the people and to let them know that dementia is a medical condition that can happen to anyone getting old; depending on the person’s genetic composition and some other factors.
She solicited partnership with the ABS in the campaign towards uplifting the living conditions of the senior citizens, saying it is the reason the foundation is organising the 2024 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 15th of June with the theme “Bold Age with gratitude”, and that it has become increasingly crucial to protect the rights and dignity of elderly citizens, even as she noted that, the society needs to give respect and care to the aged in communities.
Responding, Sir Chido commended the initiative which he said is in line with the state government’s drive towards caring and prioritizing the living standards of senior citizens, and assured the delegation that the station will always partner with groups with a positive agenda that are in line with the state government’s vision for a better Anambra.
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