Each year on September 21, individuals worldwide observe World Alzheimer’s Day through advocacy initiatives, awareness events and fundraising campaigns aimed at combating the stigma surrounding dementia and garnering public support against the disease.
This year marks the seventh anniversary of the partnership between Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM), OSK Foundation (OSKF) & Atria Shopping Gallery (Atria) as they celebrate World Alzheimer’s Month (WAM) 2024 under the theme “Attitudes Towards Dementia”.
Dr. Soon Ee Hooi, ADFM Vice Chairperson EXCO of ADFM, highlighted a concerning statistic from a recent global dementia study: 80% of people mistakenly beleive dementia is a normal part of aging rather than a medical condition. This marks an increase from 66% in 2019. Additionally, 65% of healthcare professionals hold the same misconception, up from 62% in 2019. Alarmingly, 88% of individuals living with dementia report experiencing discrimination, up from 83% in 2019. The impact of dementia is projected to nearly triple in Malaysia by 2050, according to the World Alzheimer’s Report: Global Changes in Attitudes to Dementia 2024, released by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) on September 20.
“We are delighted to have World Alzheimer’s Month celebrated at Atria Shopping Gallery. It provides an invaluable opportunity to raise awareness about dementia and its efforts on families, communities and the nation,” said Dr. Soon. She cited that a big group of healthcare professionals have reported receiving minimal training in dementia care, contributing to the perception that dementia is a natural part of aging, which can lead to delayed or incorrect diagnoses. On a positive note. Dr. Soon recognized an increase in confidence among respondents in addressing stigma, compared to 2019, emphasizing that everyone can contribute to change by supporting World Alzheimer’s Month.
Established in 1997, ADFM celebrates its 27th anniversary this year. The theme “Attitudes Towards Dementia” aims to underscore the importance of understanding potential risk factors and the steps that can be taken to delay or prevent dementia.
Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions globally, impairing memory, thinking, and behavior, and ultimately diminishing quality of life. A major challenge is the stigma associated with the illness, leading to discrimination and inadequate access to healthcare and support.
“Despite Alzheimer’s disease being identified over 100 years ago, awareness remains insufficient among Malaysians. Therefore, advocacy and awareness efforts are central to ADFM’s mission. This year, we have planned various efforts to engage the public, highlighting that greater participation leads to increased awareness,” Dr. Soon added.
Encouragingly, more people now recognise the link between lifestyle and dementia risk, with over 58% believing an unhealthy lifestyle contributes to the condition. Notably, 45% of dementia cases are influenced by 14 modifiable risk factors, indicating progress in public understanding.
Highlights of the WAM2024 Campaign at Atria Shopping Gallery include:
- Dementia Awareness Talks
- Health Exercises
- Free Health Screenings
- Memory Walk
- Exhibition Booths, and more
This year’s World Alzheimer’s Month celebration is organized by Atria Shopping Gallery in collaboration with OSK Foundation and supported by ADFM.
“Dementia is not a normal part of aging; it is a neurodegenerative disease that requires our attention. Ny raising awareness about cognitive decline, we can promoye better brain health and potentially mitigate its effects. This September, let’s work together to spread awareness of dementia and Alzheimer’s by using the hashtags #TimeToActOnDementia and #TimeToActOnAlzheimers on social media or participating in events organized by Atria Community Corner,” said Ms. Cheryl Ong, CEO of OSK Foundation.
ADFM< OSK foundation & Atria Shopping Gallery are committed to creating a supportive environment for individuals with dementia and fostering open discussions to combat stigma and isolation. They aim to enhance public understanding of dementia and empower the community with the resources they need.
“Our collaboration with ADFM bagan in September 2017 with the establishment of the Atria-ADFM Community Corner (AACC) on the third floor of Atria Shopping Gallery. Since then, we’ve seen a strong public response, expending ADFM’s network of dementia care centers in Malaysia. Through AACC, caregivers and the public can learn about dementia, the early detection, and management strategies,” added Cheryl Ong.
Visitors can also stop by the AACC on Atria’s third floor to learn about dementia and its early detection, as well as participate in caregiving and social activities designed for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
For more information, kindly contact Atria’s Concierge at 03-7733 5156 or visit www.atria.com.my or www.fb.com/atriadj
