The Mauritian government is set to bolster its care for patients with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia with the establishment of a new Day Care and Resource Centre in La Vigie. The project, valued at Rs 114 million, is being spearheaded by the Association Alzheimer & Dementia. The centre is designed to cater not only to patients but also to their families and caregivers, providing them with the necessary support and resources.
According to Dr. Ibrahim Alladin, a benefactor of the association, the demographic landscape of Mauritius has changed significantly, with an ageing population and a rising number of people living with dementia. Currently, Mauritius has over 25,000 individuals living with dementia, but the services and specialized structures available are limited. The new centre aims to bridge this gap by offering comprehensive care and support.
The centre will focus on providing care and support to patients and their families and will also offer training and education to caregivers. This training will enable caregivers to better communicate with and care for individuals with dementia. The centre will also prioritize public education, aiming to dispel misconceptions and stigma associated with dementia. It will serve as a platform for awareness-raising and provide training for professionals.
The project's ambitions extend beyond Mauritius' borders, with plans to establish the centre as a regional hub for research, training, and cooperation. Contacts have been established with partners in South Africa and Kenya, and links are being explored with universities and research institutions in the UK, Australia, and Canada. The centre will also host conferences and provide continuous professional training.
To achieve its goals, the project has garnered support from various organizations and individuals, including Bank One and Le Défi Media Group. The Lions Club International and several charitable foundations have also been approached for support. Fundraising campaigns are planned in the UK, Canada, and Australia, targeting the Mauritian diaspora.
The project is now in its concrete phase, with the laying of the foundation stone scheduled for late October, followed by the commencement of construction. The architectural plans have been completed, and several authorizations have been obtained. The centre's design prioritizes environmental sustainability, incorporating natural light, rainwater harvesting, and preservation of green spaces.
The centre is expected to be completed by early 2028 and will feature four apartments for international researchers and visitors. Dr. Ibrahim Alladin hopes to make the centre a reference point in the region, emphasizing the importance of community support for the project. The centre will provide a much-needed resource for the thousands of individuals affected by dementia in Mauritius.
Key points
- The new centre aims to provide comprehensive care and support to Alzheimer's and dementia patients, their families, and caregivers in Mauritius.
- The project has a regional focus, with plans to establish the centre as a hub for research, training, and cooperation in the region.
- The centre's design prioritizes environmental sustainability and will feature green spaces, natural light, and rainwater harvesting.
