A: Dementia is a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere with managing activities of daily living.

A: Some types of dementia like Alzheimer are hereditary but some are not.

A: In Zimbabwe we have a specialist team leader, Mentha Nyamande. You can reach Menta at, +263 77 548 3749. In UK, Morejoy Saineti, +44 7872 048378. We can also be reached via email at hello@rcmission.org

A: Some myths related to dementia in the African context, include:

• People living with dementia are witches
• People living with dementia are bewitched
• Are demon possessed
• Every confusion is dementia
• Every elderly person suffers with dementia

A: Some key elements on Dementia include:

• Dementia is not a normal part of ageing.
• Dementia is usually progressive – it gets worse over time.
• Symptoms of depression and delirium in older adults can mimic symptoms of Dementia, therefore, a thorough assessment and regular follow-up is essential.
• It is critical to assess the carer’s stress and psychosocial well-being and provide psychosocial support.
• There is much that can be done to improve symptoms and the living situation of people with Dementia and their carers.
• Psychosocial interventions are the first-line treatment options for people with Dementia; pharmacological interventions should not be routinely considered.
• Behavioral and psychological symptoms of Dementia can be very distressing for the person and carer; therefore, developing treatment plans that address these symptoms are essential.
• Follow-up should be planned, at minimum, every three months.

A: Please visit us on our website, https://africadementiaservices.org