馃嚳馃嚰NewsDay Zimbabwe路2 days ago
Zimbabwean senators call for urgent government action on rising dementia crisis
Senators in Zimbabwe are urging the government to address the increasing burden of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, highlighting that thousands of elderly citizens are suffering due to stigma, inadequate healthcare, and a lack of national policy. During a recent Senate debate initiated by Senator Angeline Tongogara, lawmakers described dementia as an emerging public health crisis impacting older persons and the country's social and economic fabric. Senator Teresa Kabondo noted that over 75% of dementia cases in Africa go undiagnosed, with symptoms often mistaken for normal aging, witchcraft, or spiritual affliction, leading to stigma and neglect. She called for nationwide awareness campaigns and a National Dementia Strategy for diagnosis, treatment, caregiver support, and rehabilitation. Senator Annah Shiri reported that 27,377 individuals are currently diagnosed with dementia, with projections indicating this number could exceed 80,000 by 2050. Former Public Service minister and Senator Prisca Mupfumira emphasized the poor living standards in old people's homes, insufficient healthcare, and meager pension payouts, stating the country is ill-prepared for a rapidly aging population. She also pointed out the disproportionate burden on women who often care for relatives with dementia without adequate support. Senator Apollonia Munzverengwi and Senator Tawanda Bvumo further stressed the need for public understanding and policy action, describing dementia as a constitutional, soc
