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Abstract

In India, number of people with Alzheimer's Disease and other forms of dementia has crossed 4.5 million mark, which constitutes approx. 4% of total elderly population (115 million+). Unfortunately this section of our elderly population is most vulnerable and marginalized section of society. Every older person experiencing the problem and behavior is considered a burden. The disease is considered as terminal by most of the people associated to the patient i.e. family members, relatives, even caregivers. Wherein; in today's world most cases at an early stage are curable and patients can recover from this disease completely and lead a normal life again. The stigma associated with dementia has arisen due to lack of awareness in the society. People in India have very little understanding of dementia and it is often treated as an old age related disease with which family members and relatives of the elderly with dementia have to compromise and suffer as long as the elderly with dementia live. In our society, people generally marginalize or isolate the affected person with increasing loss of their memory power, emotions & feelings. The lack of awareness and understanding and effects is compounded by limited training facilities for the caregivers and total absence of any support mechanism. Individuals with proper set of resources (counseling, information, experience, knowledge and success stories) can cope with the feelings of loss, frustration, and confusion of dementia more successfully. Support groups and professionals must provide families with information, emotional and practical support and advocacy support.

Biography

Email: himanshurath@gmail.com