BANGALORE: The Kannada translation of the Dementia India Report 2010 (DIR-2010) was released at the valedictory programme of the World Elders’ Week at NIMHANS.Speaking on the occasion Director of NIMHANS Dr P Sathish Chandra said that the main thrust of the report is developing a regional and state strategy. “It aims to contribute and act as a catalyst for the development of the comprehensive programmes to promote and protect the health of the elderly in Karnataka and prevent the establishment of preventable morbidity amongst them,” he noted.He also maintained that according to the government of India’s directions, the World Elders’ Week will now be celebrated every year. “The Health Ministry is set to launch the national health care programme for elders and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has undertaken the revision of the national policy for older persons,” he added. Emphasising on the need of holistic care for elders, former Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court and member of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) V S Malimath said elders should be respected to inculcate good values among the youth. Their emotional problems should also be addressed, he observed.Chairman of Alzheimers Association Dr Jacob Roy said that it is estimated that over 3.7 million people are affected by dementia in India and this is expected to double by 2030. In Karnataka, more than 180,000 people are suffering from dementia and it will double in the next 20 years. Despite the magnitude, there is gross ignorance, neglect and scarcity of services for people with dementia and their families.“The government is focusing on the non communicable diseases (NCDs) and now the Dementia India Report-2010 calls for the government and policy makers to also recognise dementia as a health and social welfare priority by developing a national dementia strategy,” he added.
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