SOMERSTET-EAST NEWS - September was International Alzheimer's Awareness Month, with 21 September 2025 being World Alzheimer's Day.
Mondia Sunnyside, a wellness facility in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), in collaboration with ADASA (Association for Dementia and Alzheimer's of South Africa) presented a workshop on dementia and Alzheimer's disease in Somerset East on 25 September.
Occupational Therapist, Helouise Potgieter, and occupational therapy technician, Chrisna Vlok, represented Mondia Sunnyside and Dr Heather Rauch, a social worker, and the ADASA Regional Manager for the Eastern Cape made a virtual appearance, educating the attendees about the important financial and legal aspects of a person living with dementia.
Huis Silwerjare, the Old Age Home in Somerset East, graciously hosted the workshop.
There were 30 attendees at the workshop, including care givers for person’s living with dementia, old age home staff, members of the general public wanting to learn more about dementia, as well as people who are living with a loved one suffering from dementia.
The attendees were all provided with a comprehensive dementia care guide as well as important information regarding the work that ADASA do in the Eastern Cape.
"The theme for this year’s Alzheimer’s Awareness Campaign is “Ask about Dementia. Ask about Alzheimer’s.” and the workshop aimed to equip the attendees with practical skills and knowledge about the disease.
The fear and stigma regarding Dementia and Alzheimer's disease were also addressed.
The attendees furthermore participated in practical games that are beneficial not only for those living with dementia, but also for the elderly," informed Potgieter.
The difference between Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease was explained, with Dementia being the umbrella term for progressive neuro-cognitive diseases that are marked by cognitive decline and general loss of functioning.
Alzheimer's Disease is the most prevalent form of Dementia with it accounting for 60 – 70% of all dementia cases. Simply put: Not all Dementia is Alzheimer’s Disease, but all Alzheimer's Disease is Dementia”.
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