It is important that carers ask for help from family members when one of their relatives is suffering from dementia. This was one of the many important issues that emerged during a talk held by The Malta Dementia Society last week.

The Malta Dementia Society promotes the best methods of care, education and treatment of persons with dementia and related disorders. All family members should be included in any decisions taken so the burden of taking care of the patient does not fall on one person.

It is estimated that at least 3,400 people suffer from dementia, and this number will keep on rising since Malta has an ageing population. However, there is a lack of services and human resources to tackle this ever-increasing problem.

More support is essential for the carers themselves, as well as for the families involved. More education and information is needed on how to take care of people suffering from dementia, and what can be done to make their life as comfortable as possible.

Dementia is a term used to describe a group of chronic or persistent brain diseases that result in the progressive impairment of brain function. Symptoms can include loss of memory, confusion, language difficulties, difficulties performing routine tasks and personality or mood changes.

Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause of dementia and accounts for 50-60 per cent of cases. The disease progressively destroys nerve cells disrupting the transmitters that carry messages to the brain. Vascular Dementia and Lewy Body Disease are two other common causes accounting for another 15-20 per cent each.

Although there is no cure for dementia, much can be done to help the person with dementia to enjoy and get the most out of life. Carers and relatives of need to be well informed about the condition and helped to learn new skills.

The Malta Dementia Society is a non-profit non-governmental organisation for persons with dementia, their carers, families and friends. The society brings together healthcare professionals and interested persons to improve the knowledge on dementia and to increase the public awareness of the condition.

It was established in September 2004 on the occasion of World Alzheimer’s Day – an event that is commemorated worldwide.

More information can be found on the website: www.maltadementiasociety.org.mt.