Dementia is a serious global health problem, and the Philippines is no exception. It affects a large part of the Filipino population, ranging from older adults to those in their mid-40s. As the population ages, the number of dementia cases is expected to increase dramatically. It is thus essential to provide appropriate and effective care for those affected by dementia.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive function that affects a person’s ability to think, remember, and reason. It is often associated with a decline in physical abilities as well. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, but there are other types such as vascular dementia and frontotemporal dementia.
Understanding the Scope of Dementia Care in the Philippines
According to the World Health Organization, the prevalence of dementia in the Philippines is estimated to be 2.2%. This means that out of every 100 people, at least two people are living with dementia. It also means that over one million Filipinos are currently living with dementia. This number is expected to increase by 67% by 2040.
The Challenges of Dementia Care in the Philippines
Providing adequate care for people with dementia in the Philippines is a challenging task. There is a lack of resources and infrastructure to address the needs of people with dementia and their families. For instance, while most public hospitals provide basic medical services, they often lack specialized dementia care services.
There is also a lack of public awareness and understanding of dementia and its implications. This leads to stigma and discrimination towards people with dementia and their families. As a result, many people living with dementia are not able to access the help they need and are often not receiving the care they deserve.
The Role of Family in Caring for People with Dementia
Family plays a vital role in providing care for people with dementia. In the Philippines, family is an important source of support for people with dementia and their families. Family members are often the primary caregivers and should be provided with adequate information and support. This includes providing emotional and practical support, as well as helping to access appropriate services.
Current Dementia Care Services in the Philippines
The Philippine government has taken steps to improve dementia care in the country. For example, the Department of Health has introduced dementia care guidelines to help health professionals provide appropriate care to people with dementia. The Department also provides support to family caregivers via the “Family Caregiver Support Program”.
In addition, there are a number of organizations that provide support and services for people with dementia and their families. These include the Alzheimer’s Disease International, the Philippine Alzheimer’s & Related Disorders Association, and the Philippine Mental Health Association.
Conclusion
The challenge of providing adequate care for people with dementia in the Philippines is significant. However, by providing support and services to family caregivers, as well as raising public awareness about the challenges of dementia care, the Philippine government is taking steps to address the challenge and improve the quality of life of people with dementia and their families.