SUHAR, Sept 29
The National Alzheimer’s Symposium 2024 was inaugurated in North Al Batinah under the patronage of Mohammed Al Kindi, Governor of North Al Batinah. With the participation of health leaders such as Dr Khalid Al Saadi, General Director of Health Services in North Al Batinah, the Deans of the National University of Science and Technology’s College of Medicine, and Oman College of Health Sciences, the symposium aims to tackle Alzheimer’s disease and dementia-related challenges.
Held in conjunction with World Alzheimer’s Month, the symposium is a collaborative effort involving the General Directorate of Health Services in North Al Batinah, the Saham Health Complex, University Medical City, and the Oman Alzheimer’s Association. The event is a key initiative to raise public awareness of Alzheimer’s, improve diagnostic and treatment services, and highlight the support needed by patients and caregivers. Special attention is being placed on promoting healthy lifestyles that could mitigate Alzheimer’s risk.
According to Dr Huda Al Qutaybi, a mental health consultant, this is the first time the symposium is being held outside Muscat, a significant milestone in raising national awareness. "Our government’s focus on the elderly is evident, with approximately 167,000 Omanis now registered for elderly benefits. In North Al Batinah alone, over 70 dementia patients were diagnosed in just the past month at Sohar Hospital’s new elderly and dementia clinic," said Dr Huda.
Key topics of discussion include the realities of dementia, advancements in Alzheimer’s diagnosis and treatment, palliative care, and interventions for behavioral symptoms.
Dr Huda also underscored the need for better facilities and legislative reforms to support elderly patients and their caregivers. "This symposium is crucial in addressing the health, social, and legal impacts of Alzheimer’s, urging decision-makers to improve services and create facilities that honour the dignity of this vulnerable group," she added.
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