Report on World Alzheimer’s Day Panel Discussion at Govt. College University Lahore – 26-09-2023
Introduction
On September 26, 2023, Govt. College University Lahore hosted a panel discussion to commemorate World Alzheimer’s Day. The event aimed to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and engage experts from various fields in a discussion to shed light on the challenges, prevention, and management of this neurodegenerative disorder. The event was facilitated by Prof. Dr. Asghar Zaidi, Vice Chancellor of GC University Lahore, and featured distinguished panelists including Dr. Athar Javed (Neurologist), Dr. Fur Haider (Psychiatrist), Miss Sumera (Head of Women Development Wing), Dr. Hussain Jafri (Secretary Alzheimer’s Pakistan), and Col. Muhammad Ayub (President Alzheimer’s Pakistan).
Event was formally started with the recitation of Holy Quran and Naat. Dr. Hussain Jafri welcomed all the distinguished guests.
Key Discussion Points
1. Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Dr. Athar Javed, a renowned neurologist, began the discussion by providing a comprehensive overview of Alzheimer’s disease. He emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and its impact on treatment outcomes. He briefly explained the 12 risk factors that contribute in vulnerability to Alzheimer’s disease. Education, Hearing, and Social Isolation were discussed in detail that are major problems in our society.
2. Psychological Aspects of Alzheimer’s
Dr. Fur Haider, a psychiatrist, delved into the psychological aspects of Alzheimer’s. She highlighted the emotional toll the disease takes on patients and their families, discussing the importance of support and counseling throughout the caregiving journey. Dr. Fur Haider also emphasized the role of medications and therapy in managing behavioral and psychological symptoms. She also said that women are overburdened in as caregivers in Pakistani society.
3. Women and Alzheimer’s
Miss Sumera, Head of Women Development Wing, emphasized the disproportionate impact of Alzheimer’s on women. She discussed the caregiving burden that often falls on women and called for increased awareness and support for female caregivers. Miss Sumera also encouraged women to prioritize their own well-being while caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s.
4. Alzheimer’s Pakistan’s Efforts
Col. (Retired) Muhammad Ayub, President Alzheimer’s Pakistan, highlighted the role of community awareness to protect their elderly from this disease. He also emphasized that our younger generation are much attached to their grandparents, and they are best source of socialization to their grand children. This need to be enhanced and strengthens.
5. Alzheimer’s Pakistan’s Efforts
Dr. Hussain Jafri, Secretary of Alzheimer’s Pakistan, provided insights into the organization’s initiatives and advocacy efforts. He highlighted their work in raising awareness, supporting caregivers, and providing resources to those affected by Alzheimer’s in Pakistan. Dr. Jafri stressed the need for collaborative efforts to address the growing Alzheimer’s epidemic. He also highlighted the change in social fabric that was once our pride.
6. Collaborative Efforts and Future Initiatives
Col. Muhammad Ayub, President of Alzheimer’s Pakistan, emphasized the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community organizations to address the Alzheimer’s crisis. He discussed future initiatives aimed at improving access to care, advocating for better policies, and advancing research in the field.
Conclusion The panel discussion on World Alzheimer’s Day at Govt. College University Lahore provided valuable insights into the multifaceted aspects of Alzheimer’s disease. The panelists, representing various disciplines, shared their expertise and experiences to create a comprehensive understanding of Alzheimer’s and its impact on individuals and society. The event concluded with a call for increased awareness, support, and collaboration to address the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s disease in Pakistan.