Dementia in the time of the pandemic, and what we can do for our senior citizens

| Written by Deina Blancaflor

There are an estimated 10 million senior citizens in the Philippines, which may double by 2040. Within this sizable population, a growing number suffer from dementia.

Worsening the situation is the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to impact older people both physically and mentally. Seniors are at the highest risk for infection, complications, and even death. Their limited movement and inability to go out and frequently socialize also contribute to the “deconditioning” of their minds and bodies.

How can we properly care for our elderly? What are the early signs and symptoms of dementia? How can healthcare front-liners guide families and caregivers in handling seniors with dementia while ensuring their quality of life is maintained?

This June 17, from 12nn to 2 pm, the University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with the UP Manila National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH), the National Telehealth Center (NTC), and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), invite you to join the fight against C.O.V.I.D—current COVID-19 problems, other outbreaks, viruses, infections, and disasters.

In this week’s episode of the UP “Stop C.O.V.I.D. Deaths” webinar series, “Demensya sa Panahon ng Pandemya,” two experts will shed light on everything we need to know about dementia. The speakers are leading gerontologists, Dr. Shelley De La Vega, Director of the Institute of Aging at the NTC, UP Manila, and Dr. Evangeline Dela Fuente, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine of the College of Medicine, UP Manila.

Dr. Stella Marie Jose, UP PGH Deputy Director for Health Operations, will give the synthesis and closing remarks.

Register here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and T.V.U.P.’s YouTube channel and Facebook pages. Together, let’s learn about dementia for the sake of our family members who suffer from the disease.

The award-winning UP “Stop COVID Deaths” Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community.