Macau Alzheimer’s Disease Association Chairman Huen Wing Ming told reporters on the sidelines of yesterday’s “Building a Dementia-Friendly Community” forum that there are over 6,000 officially registered dementia patients in Macau, though the actual number is likely higher, adding that as the city gradually enters a “super-aged”* society, the number of dementia patients is expected to rise further, adding that the high prevalence of dementia has also become a significant global trend.
Based on Macau’s officially estimated population of 686,600 at the end of the third quarter of this year, the number of registered dementia patients accounts for about 0.87 percent of the population.
The one-day international forum took place at the Islands Kiang Wu Nursing College Medical Complex** in Cotai yesterday, aiming to enhance public understanding of dementia, promote an inclusive and respectful culture, and facilitate international and regional experience sharing.
Huen noted that the current training system and facilities can meet present demands, but as the population ages, resources will need to be progressively increased, such as establishing new care facilities and training personnel in dementia identification and care, aligning with global trends.
Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Paola Barbarino said in a speech at the forum that Macau has exemplified leadership in this area, as not only has it own official Dementia Plan, but also has the Kiang Wu Nursing College been officially accredited by ADI for its dementia training and education.
The forum featured experts exploring diverse approaches to dementia care and social inclusion, such as the status and prospects of Macau’s dementia-friendly community initiatives, which attracted about 500 participants.
* A super-aged society is defined as a demographic condition where at least 20 percent of the population is aged 65 or older. This phenomenon typically arises due to low birth rates and higher life expectancy, leading to a significant proportion of older individuals. Super-aged societies face unique challenges, such as increased healthcare demands, changes in the labour market, and the need for social support systems tailored to the elderly. Countries like Japan and Italy are often cited as examples of super-aged societies. – Poe
** The official term “Islands” refers to the Macau Special Administrative Region’s Taipa and Coloane islands, which include the reclaimed Cotai entertainment “Strip” between them. – MPD
Macau Alzheimer’s Disease Association Chairman Huen Wing Ming addresses yesterday’s “Building a Dementia-Friendly Community” forum at the Kiang Wu Nursing College of Islands Medical Complex in Cotai. – Photos: Ida Cheong
Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Paola Barbarino (second from left) and other attendees pose for a group photo during the one-day “Building a Dementia-Friendly Community” international forum at the Islands Kiang Wu Nursing College Medical Complex in Cotai yesterday.
