The National Orientation Agency, Osun State Directorate, has called on Nigerians to seek early diagnosis and provide support for people living with dementia as the world marks World Alzheimer’s Day 2026. This call was made in a statement signed by the State Director, Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, and issued by the Public Relations Officer, Bunmi Olaseinde. The 2026 observance is being held under the theme, “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.”
Adefarasin emphasized that memory loss and behavioural changes among older people should not automatically be dismissed as part of normal ageing. He identified frequent memory loss, difficulty performing familiar tasks, confusion, poor communication, and changes in mood or personality as some of the warning signs associated with dementia. According to him, early diagnosis is crucial for timely medical care and informed decision-making for the care and wellbeing of people living with dementia.
The Osun State Directorate of the NOA reaffirmed its call for greater public awareness of dementia and encouraged communities to support early diagnosis and compassionate care for affected individuals and their caregivers. Adefarasin urged families and communities to treat people living with dementia with dignity, respect, and compassion, while rejecting stigma and discrimination against them.
World Alzheimer’s Day is observed globally on September 21. The NOA’s statement was released on Monday as part of activities to commemorate the day. The agency encouraged members of the public to learn about the warning signs, seek medical attention when necessary, support patients and caregivers, and promote the inclusion of people living with dementia in society.
Adefarasin stressed that early diagnosis enables families to plan ahead and make informed decisions concerning the care and wellbeing of people living with dementia. He called on the public to support patients and caregivers, and promote the inclusion of people living with dementia in society.
The NOA’s Osun State Directorate is working to promote public awareness of dementia and encourage communities to support early diagnosis and compassionate care. The agency’s efforts aim to promote a society that is supportive and inclusive of people living with dementia.
The theme of the 2026 World Alzheimer’s Day observance, “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters,” underscores the importance of early diagnosis and timely medical care for people living with dementia.
Key points
- The Osun State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency urges Nigerians to seek early diagnosis and support for people living with dementia.
- Early diagnosis of dementia enables families to plan ahead and make informed decisions concerning care and wellbeing.
- The 2026 World Alzheimer’s Day observance aims to promote public awareness of dementia and encourage communities to support early diagnosis and compassionate care.
