SVG recommits to more awareness and early diagnosis to mark World Alzheimer’s Day

ST.VINCENT AND THE Grenadines joined communities around the world in observing World Alzheimer’s Day 2026 with renewed emphasis on the importance of early diagnosis, greater public awareness, and support for persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Observed annually on September 21, World Alzheimer’s Day forms part of World Alzheimer’s Month, an international campaign coordinated by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and promote greater understanding of dementia.

The St.Vincent and the Grenadines Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Association (SVGADDA) continues to play an important role in promoting dementia awareness, caregiver education, advocacy, and community engagement.

Speaking with the Agency for Public Information (API), Coordinator of the Home Help Programme, Glendeena Timm, said this year’s activities include a community health fair, transportation for patients to attend medical checkups, grooming sessions through the MOVE Programme, and a reading session for children at the National Public Library in Kingstown.

Timm urged individuals, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, community organisations, and policymakers to continue the conversation about dementia and work towards a society where people living with the condition are treated with dignity, compassion, and respect. She also encouraged the public to wear purple to support people living with dementia and their families.

The 2026 campaign is being observed under the theme, “The EarlierYou Know,The MoreYou Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters”.The campaign highlights the importance of timely diagnosis in helping individuals, families, and caregivers access appropriate care, support, and available treatment options. ( API)