Mangaluru: A short and sweet finale to World Alzheimer’s Month (WAM) at the city’s Kadri Park, was the order of the day, given the pandemic circumstances. WAM, which was inaugurated on 1 September 2020 via a Webinar by PAGE (People`s Association of Geriatric Empowerment) ended today but there was no fun and frolic from the young and the old as was the practice hitherto. Another dampener for the celebrations was the absence of Dr Olinda Pereira – the Director of Vishwas Trust for the elderly, Mangaluru; Founder Principal of Roshni Nilaya School of Social Work, Mangaluru, and also the President of PAGE, who expired on 31 May 2020, at the age of 95.
The program began with a welcome address by Dr. Prabha Adhikari M R, the Vice President of PAGE, who briefed the audience about the significance of the celebration of World Alzheimer’s month and said, “Dementia can affect all aspects of a person’s life, as well as their family’s. If you have been diagnosed with dementia, or you are caring for someone with the condition, remember that there is advice and support available to help you live well. People with dementia shouldn’t simply stop doing what they enjoy in life; instead, they should try to remain as independent as possible and continue to enjoy their usual activities. Over time, people with dementia will need help to cope at home, and they may even need residential care in a nursing home eventually”.
“It is natural to feel worried about the future, but you are not alone – whether you have dementia or you care for someone with the condition. PAGE and other social services and voluntary organizations under PAGE can all provide advice and support to help you and your family. Living a healthy lifestyle is important for everyone, including people with dementia, and is the best way to help prevent dementia. Eating well and exercising are important for everyone. PAGE has health and well-being advice for everyone. If a friend or family member finds it hard to talk to you, make the first move, and explain that you still need to see them and tell them how they can help you. Thanks for your continued support during this Alzheimer’s Month, and we look forward to continued support in our future ventures” added Dr. Prabha Adhikari.
The program stood inaugurated with the release of Red & White balloons and the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries of the day, viz. Akshy Shridar- MCC Commissioner; Dr Raghuveer M R- Trustee of PAGE; Dr. Prabha Adhikari- Vice President, PAGE; Er Jerardin D’Souza- Secretary of PAGE, and Founder of Mangalore Alzheimer’s Association; Ms. Evelyn Benis – HoD of MSW, Roshni Nilaya; Dr. Ramachandra- DHO, Dist Wenlock Hospital; Dr. Ravish Thunga- Psychiatrist; DCP Jagadeesh; Ln Karnere Krishnanand Pai- President, Lions Club of Mangalore; Kiran Shyam- BNI Inspire, Mangaluru; Mohan Raj- Jt Secretary/Treasurer of PAGE; Suresh – Former HR Manager-MCF; among others.
Addressing the gathering MCC Commissioner Akshy Shridar said, “The Covid-19 pandemic has created equality among people. And amidst this pandemic, people with Alzheimer’s are also part of the society, and they need to respected and cared for. Covid-19 has also united relative and friends to help each other during the pandemic, and those affected with the Virus. The pandemic has taken away many lives, which is sad, and therefore we need to take care and follow the guidelines of Covid-19. We should also appreciate the work done by Çovid Warriors’, like the doctors, nurses, health care staff, police, media, among others, who are playing a vital role during the pandemic. I commend PAGE and its members for their initiatives and programs aimed at caring and loving towards Alzheimer’s/Dementia people. Keep up the good work and may God bless you all”.
Other dignitaries on the dais also spoke about Dementia and urged the community, especially the youngsters to show love towards the older people, and particularly care for those diagnosed with neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s/Dementia.
Ms. Evelyn Benis emotionally recalled the life of the late Dr. Olinda Pereira said that she was a mentor and guide for many, who had also played an important role in caring for the elders. “We miss her terribly on this occasion as she was very active in the past”, she said.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Mohan Raj, the treasurer of PAGE, while, advocate Shubha Baliga compered the event.
The short program ended with a dance recital by members of the Upasanya Dance Team. The dance recital was choreographed by Prathiksha Prabhu.
