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Forget me not: Dementia risk o Almost one in two neurocognitive decline cases can be prevented

U P to 45% of dementia risk could be prevented or delayed, the World Health Organisation said, citing modifiable risk factors such as tobacco and air pollution. Dementia is the seventh leading cause of death and a major cause of disability and dependency among older people globally. Dementia is caused by brain diseases and affects memory, thinking and the ability to function, reported AFP. “While there is no cure for dementia, up to 45% of the risks can be attributed to modifiable risk factors such as tobacco, alcohol use, social isolation, physical inactivity, air pollution and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including high blood pressure and diabetes,” WHO said in a statement. More than 57 million people live with dementia worldwide and nearly 10 million people get diagnosed every year, it said. Alzheimer disease is the most common form of dementia and is estimated to account for 60% to 70% of cases. “Behind these numbers are individuals, families and communities navigating profound challenges that affect not only health, but dignity, independence, and well being,” said WHO NCDs and mental health department director Devora Kestel. “This is not a distant issue. It touches all of us,” she wrote in a foreword to updated WHO guidance published last month on how health workers and policymakers can help prevent or delay the onset of dementia. The UN health agency issued its first dementia recommendations in 2019 but said the evidence base had grown significantly since. The guidelines aim to promote early awareness and intervention in a bid to reduce the burden of dementia brings immense emotional and physical challenges. Real-life stories show that avoiding arguments, establishing daily routines and seeking family support are key. Common challenges in dementia care 0 Behavioural changes Sudden mood swings, anger and confusion often occur due to changes in the brain. 0 Communication barriers Loved ones may repeat questions, forget words or struggle to express pain and needs. 0 Safety risks Wandering and forgetting routine tasks (such as turning off the stove or taking medication) create constant worry. 0 Caregiver burnout Bearing a heavy daily burden alone leads to exhaustion and sleep deprivation. Lessons and management strategies based on real-life experience 0 Stop arguing Caregivers often find correcting a CARING dementia for someone with

are unavailable. TNG eWallet is part of everyday life for many senior Malaysians, with more than 3.4 million verified users aged 60 and above on the platform. This strong adoption demonstrates growing confidence in digital financial services among older Malaysians and provides a solid foundation to support JPA’s financial inclusion efforts. Eligible pensioners who choose TNG eWallet under this initiative can also apply for a fee-waived TNG eWallet Visa Card, giving them greater flexibility to pay, shop and withdraw cash using their pension funds. Linked directly to their TNG eWallet balance, the card also enables cash withdrawals at ATMs and payments at Visa merchants worldwide, allowing pensioners to choose the payment method that best suits their daily needs. TNG eWallet incorporates multiple security features, including 100% identity verification, biometric authentication, device binding, Kill Switch and a fraud support hotline, helping pensioners manage their funds with greater confidence. These safeguards also provide added peace of mind for their families, particularly when using digital financial services. in the coming decades, it said. Although more common after 65, the condition is not an inevitable part of ageing, WHO insisted. Focus on prevention “We know more today than ever before about what drives dementia risk and these guidelines translate that knowledge into action. Countries now have clear, evidence-based recommendations they can put into practice immediately to protect people’s cognitive health,” said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Because there is no cure for dementia or widely accessible treatment, the guidelines emphasised prevention remains the most effective strategy to reduce the number of cases. Among other things, the WHO suggested cognitive stimulation and training for adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment. The NGO said better management of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol could also help reduce dementia risk. And it recommended stronger integration of services for NCDs, mental health and brain health. The WHO insisted investments in reducing the dementia risk would pay dividends, with the condition estimated to cost the global economy US$1.3 trillion (RM5.3 trillion) annually – around half of which is unpaid care provided by family and friends. “Understanding risk factors and taking action to prevent dementia can improve health and quality of life, helping people live longer, healthier and more independent lives,” it said.

Dementia is caused by brain diseases and affects memory, thinking and the ability to function. – AI-GENERATED PIC

Tips for caregivers, families of people with senility

TNG Digital supports financial inclusion initiative for pensioners

RECOGNISING some pensioners face challenges accessing their monthly pension through conventional banking channels, TNG Digital Sdn Bhd, the operator of TNG eWallet, is supporting the Public Service Department’s (JPA) financial inclusion initiative by providing eligible pensioners with an alternative payment option when they are unable to access them through conventional banking channels. For many retirees, their monthly pension is an essential source of income. However, some pensioners face genuine barriers in accessing these funds when their bank accounts are frozen or restricted, including after falling victim to financial scams. In such situations, some pensioners may need to make alternative arrangements to access their pension payments, creating unnecessary hardship, particularly for elderly Malaysians. Supporting JPA’s initiative to address this challenge, TNG Digital provides eligible pensioners with an alternative payment channel through TNG eWallet, complementing existing banking channels and helping ensure continued access to pension payments when bank accounts

Entering a person with dementia’s reality can foster calm and prevent stress. – 123RFPIC

identification tags can help manage the risk of wandering. 0 Seek advice Contacting admin support or asking family members to take over caregiving duties temporarily can help preserve your health and well-being. Are you caring for someone with early-stage or advanced-stage dementia? What is the most difficult daily challenge you are facing? This article is contributed by Adera Team Community Alliance Sdn Bhd.

confused loved one’s mistakes only causes more stress. Instead, entering their reality can foster calm and prevent conflict. 0 Establish a consistent routine Setting consistent times for meals, using the toilet and bedtime can reduce anxiety and behavioral issues. 0 Use simple language Using short sentences and ensuring eye contact before speaking can help prevent frustration. 0 Ensure home safety Locking doors at night and using