Mangaluru: On Sep 21, 2023, in commemoration of World Alzheimer’s Day, Manipal College of Nursing (MCON), Manipal, in collaboration with Dr AV Baliga Memorial Hospital, conducted a hands-on training program aimed at enhancing the skills of caregivers for older adults living with dementia in the Udupi district.
The event took place at Dr AV Baliga Memorial Hospital. It aimed to empower informal caregivers, thereby improving patient safety and the quality of care for older adults with dementia. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 3 – Good Health & Wellbeing.
Caring for elderly individuals with dementia is known to be challenging and demanding. Dr. Elsa Sanatombi Devi, Professor at Manipal College of Nursing and Director of the FAIMER International Institute MAHE, emphasised that abuse, neglect, and poor care often stem from inadequate training among informal caregivers. Preparing the informal caregiver workforce is crucial to meet the growing needs of this demographic. Dr P Venkataraya Bhandary, Director & Psychiatrist, Dr AV Baliga Memorial Hospital, pressed on the informal workforce’s concerns about adequate knowledge and skills.
Dr RV Baliga, Trustee, Dr AV Baliga Memorial Charities & Kamal Baliga Charitable Trust, Mumbai, inaugurated the program and spoke about the importance of care for older adults with dementia at the community level and the need for the government to enhance elderly care centres for dignified care.
Clarita Shynal Martis, Prathibha Lydia Braggs, Seelia Peter and Sreenidhi Jogi, Ph.D. scholars, Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal, empowered the caregivers using live demonstrations of advanced care aspects to enhance their skills and understanding of the care of elderly with dementia at home.
About 60 caregivers took an active part in learning about quality care for their elderly. The program was coordinated by Soujanya Shetty, Administrative Officer, Dr AV Baliga Memorial Hospital, who took a major role in organising the event.
