At Retire KZN, we are committed to staying abreast of the latest insights and developments in senior care, ensuring that our community benefits from cutting-edge knowledge and practices. Recently, TOTALCARE hosted an enlightening webinar on Alzheimer’s care, providing invaluable insights from top experts in the field. This session is crucial for understanding and implementing effective care strategies for individuals with Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s disease continues to challenge millions globally, making comprehensive care and understanding crucial. TOTALCARE, a pioneer in senior living solutions, recently hosted an enlightening webinar that shared insights into the complexities of Alzheimer’s care. The webinar brought together leading experts who shared valuable insights and practical strategies that are vital for anyone involved in caregiving or the management of Alzheimer’s patients.
The webinar was led by Andrew Paterson from Rainmaker Marketing, featuring a panel that included Cornel Nieuwenhuizen, Director at TOTALCARE; Dr. Susan Coetzer, Geriatrician and Vice-President of the South African Geriatrics Society; and Kim Hellberg, KZN Regional Manager for the Association for Dementia and Alzheimer’s of South Africa (ADASA formerly Alzheimer’s South Africa). This lineup provided a rich blend of medical, operational, and community-centred perspectives on dementia care.
Dr. Coetzer opened the discussion by clarifying the difference between Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, emphasizing the critical nature of early diagnosis. She outlined the major types of dementia, with Alzheimer’s accounting for 60-80% of cases, and stressed the necessity of tailored care strategies to effectively manage the disease.
Cornel Nieuwenhuizen shared insights on TOTALCARE’s approach to supporting residents with Alzheimer’s. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a structured routine, ensuring sufficient social interaction, and facilitating daily wellness activities. This approach not only aids in managing the disease but also provides significant emotional relief to families, knowing their loved ones are in a caring and supportive environment.
Kim Hellberg discussed the critical role of community support in caring for individuals with dementia. She noted the isolating nature of the disease for both patients and caregivers and how a supportive community can mitigate this. Hellberg detailed ADASA’s efforts, such as support groups and educational services, which play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for those affected by dementia.
The webinar also focused on improving the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Dr. Coetzer advocated for a routine-based day with nutritious meals, regular exercise, and engagement in hobbies, highlighting how these activities are crucial for cognitive and emotional health. TOTALCARE’s facilities, designed to support these activities, ensure that residents lead fulfilling lives despite the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s.
The panel also tackled the topic of the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer’s, particularly post the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Coetzer pointed to social isolation as a significant factor contributing to the rise in dementia cases. She also noted the demographic trend of an aging population, which naturally increases the incidence of dementia.
TOTALCARE’s webinar provided a comprehensive look at Alzheimer’s care, from medical insights to practical care strategies. For those managing or caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s, the session offered crucial knowledge and support tools to enhance care quality and support community involvement in managing this challenging disease.
For further insights and detailed discussions from the webinar, you can watch the webinar here.
At Retire KZN, we continue to prioritise the well-being of our community by integrating the latest knowledge in senior care. For further details into retirement within KZN, visit our website. Stay informed and proactive in navigating retirement with us.
