19/08/2026
ENLIGHTENMENT TALK ON DEMENTIA
1. WHAT IS DEMENTIA?
Dementia is NOT normal aging, madness, witchcraft or a curse.
It IS a medical condition where the brain is damaged and loses its ability to remember, think clearly and do daily tasks. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type.
2. EARLY WARNING SIGNS
- Forgetting recent events, repeating the same questions
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Difficulty finding the right words
- Difficulty doing familiar tasks like cooking or dressing
- Misplacing things in wrong places
- Changes in mood, becoming suspicious, anxious or withdrawn
- Poor judgement
One forgetful moment is not dementia. It becomes a concern when it is frequent, worsening, and affecting daily life.
3. CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS*
- Increasing age
- High blood pressure, diabetes, stroke
- Smoking and heavy alcohol use
- Head injuries
- Lack of physical activity and social isolation
- Family history
4. HOW TO REDUCE THE RISK
- Control blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol - take medication as prescribed
- Exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes walk daily
- Eat healthy - more fruits, vegetables, less fried and sugary foods
- Stop smoking and reduce alcohol
- Keep brain active - reading, puzzles, learning new skills
- Stay socially connected - family, friends, church, community groups
- Protect head - wear helmet when on boda boda
*5. HOW TO CARE FOR SOMEONE WITH DEMENTIA*
- Be patient, kind and respectful. Do not argue, shout or shame them
- Keep a daily routine - do things at same time and same place
- Keep them safe - remove sharp objects, keep chemicals away, prevent wandering alone
- Communicate simply - use short sentences, one instruction at a time
- Involve them in what they can still do - folding clothes, sorting grains
- Support the caregiver - share duties, allow rest
If you notice these signs, advise the family to visit a healthcare professional at the nearest health facility for proper assessment. Early support helps.
6. MYTHS TO STOP
Myth: Dementia is caused by witchcraft.
Fact: It is a disease of the brain.
Myth: Nothing can be done.
Fact: Treatment, good care and support improve quality of life.
Myth: They should be locked away.
Fact: They need love, dignity and inclusion.
CLOSING: Dementia affects the whole family, not just one person. Let us show understanding, not stigma.
