Alzheimer’s is a global crisis! The Alzheimer’s Association reports that over 47 million people are living with Dementia and that someone in the world develops Dementia every 3 seconds. Dementia is one of the biggest health and social challenges facing the Latin American and Caribbean regions.
Globally 59% of people incorrectly believe that Alzheimer’s is a typical part of aging. The importance of early assessment and treatment is crucial to care.
The Grenada Aging Commission held its first annual Aqua event (aqua is the colour of healing) last Sunday in St George, to build awareness of Dementia, Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Mrs A Williams, Chair of the Aging Commission, stated, “Our goal is to provide non-medical programs and information that will help people living with the disease, caregivers and family members.”
The Dementia/Alzheimer’s mobilisation efforts, spearheaded by The Aging Commission with the support of by Arlette Murrain, Consultant from the US and native of Montserrat, met with 15 organisations and private citizens: St George Anglican Church, St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Ministry of Health, Grand Anse Home, Ministry of Social Development & Housing and business leaders. Special thanks to Sissons Paint and Spice Island Beach Resort. “It is my mission and honour to provide information about Dementia/Alzheimer’s and other chronic diseases to Grenada and other Caribbean islands,” said Murrain.
Aqua Sunday will utilise the power and influence of church leadership and people of faith to promote and bring awareness to Dementia and Alzheimer’s. “It is the responsibility of clergy leaders to create health ministries within their congregations that will support, provide compassionate care, educate and design tailored programmes in their respective communities,” Williams said.
The Aging Commission St George’s Grenada’s mission is to educate, advocate and provide informational programs that will assist and enhance the quality of life for seniors in Grenada. Aqua represents sanctification and healing. Revelation 22:2
For more information to get your church or community involved, contact the Aging Commission at GNOW at 473-440-6257 or [email protected].
