Workshop participants are pictured listening attentively as Pfizer District Manager and Pharmacist, Mr. Anthony Bryan (at right) delivered his presentation on the latest medical data on Alzheimer’s Dementia. (Photo: Ronnielle Frazer/GIS)

This was one advice given to social workers, health care professionals and other caregivers by the Director of Community Mental Health Services, Dr. Virginia Rubaine during a recently held workshop on Alzheimer’s Dementia.

According to a GIS press release, the Director of Community Mental Health Services was one of three presenters who conducted the training session which was hosted by the Ministry of Health and Social Development, in partnership with the BVI Health Services Authority and Pfizer U.S. Pharmaceuticals.

During her presentation, Dr. Rubaine explained that one of the major objectives of positive social environments or psycho social interventions is to maximise patients’ functioning and to help caregivers manage the common symptoms of Alzheimer’s Dementia.

Dr. Rubaine shared that the onset of Alzheimer’s Dementia can be a very traumatic experience for patients, who may also experience Elder Abuse at the hands of family members who do not understand or recognise the symptoms of Alzheimers.

“Not having a positive social environment can accelerate the onset of the disease since patients have to cope with the disease and also have to cope with insensitive caregivers”, stated Dr. Rubaine.

As part of the recommended environmental solutions the Community Mental Health Services Director advised caregivers to implement measures to assist patients with maintaining their independence and cognitive abilities. Strategies include the use of word games, mental exercises and establishing a daily routine that patients can remember.

She also emphasised the need for caregivers to strike a balance between keeping their loved ones safe and helping them to maintain their independence.

The Alzheimer’s Workshop was held on Tuesday and was designed to share information on the latest research developments in Alzheimer’s, tools used to diagnose the disease, as well as the best medical interventions used to help patients better manage the disease.

Additional facilitators during the training session were Chief of Medical Staff and Psychiatrist of the BVI Health Services Authority, Dr. June Samuel and Pfizer District Manager and Pharmacist, Mr. Anthony Bryan.

Alzheimer’s Dementia is a condition that affects the brain eventually causing death of brain cells. As a result, individuals suffering from the condition face many challenges and may not be able to perform normal, daily activities.