Health
World Alzheimer’s Day: Stakeholders Seek Early Detection, Caregiver Support
By Vivian Emoni
Stakeholders have called for early recognition of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, stronger caregiver support and improved healthcare services to promote healthier ageing and dignity for older Nigerians.
The Caring Lot International Initiative (CLII), Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and United Healthcare HMO, made the call while commemorating the 2026 World Alzheimer’s Day on Monday in Abuja.
The theme of the World Alzheimer’s Day is “Know Early, Care Better: Changing the Story of Alzheimer in Nigeria.”
The programme was organised by CLII, in partnership with ACCI and United Healthcare HMO.
The Chief Executive Officer of the CLII, Mrs Lawunmi Ismail, said the initiative was aimed at drawing greater attention to the needs of ageing Nigerians, particularly persons living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and those caring for them.
Ismail also called on families and communities to support caregivers, adding that collective assistance was necessary to ease the burden associated with caring for older persons.
She urged caregivers who provide daily support to affected older persons to remain committed to their responsibilities.
She called on families and communities to support caregivers, given the demanding nature of caring for older persons.
The First Deputy President of the ACCI and Chairman of CLII, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, called for increased public awareness, early recognition and intervention.
Adesugba also called for stronger support systems for caregivers and more inclusive communities for older persons and people living with memory-related conditions.
He said that senior citizens should not be excluded from community programmes and social-support initiatives, noting that timely awareness could help families respond effectively.
Dr Kolawole Owoka, Chairman of ACCI Medical Trade Group and Chief Executive Officer of United Healthcare HMO, called for stronger community and healthcare structures to support caregivers.
Owoka advocated dementia-friendly and inclusive communities, adding that greater public understanding could reduce stigma and social isolation among older persons and people experiencing memory difficulties
“I am calling for a stronger public education, caregiver support, community engagement and collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers, civil society, businesses and community groups, including support for awareness campaigns.
“The support and effective collaboration will improve healthcare services and promote healthier ageing and dignity for older Nigerians,” he said
Mr Agabaidu Jideani, ACCI Director-General, commended the CLII for its awareness and advocacy efforts in creating awareness on the importance of healthier ageing and dignity for older Nigerians.
Jideani, represented by the Deputy Director-General of the ACCI, Dr Tinuke Temotope reaffirmed the chamber’s interest and its support in ensuring healthy ageing initiatives.
“Alzheimer’s disease and dementia extend beyond healthcare, with implications for families, caregivers, workplace productivity, social welfare and the wider economy,” he said.
The organisations urged families, communities and institutions to strengthen dementia awareness, reduce stigma and improve support for caregivers and senior citizens nationwide.
They discussed ageing, dementia, healthcare access, caregiver support and community-based care, with emphasis on practical measures to improve the wellbeing of older persons.(NAN)
VOE/KAE
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Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman
