Fri Sep 13 03:36:00 UTC 2024: ## Alzheimer’s Disease on the Rise: Indonesia Faces Looming Dementia Crisis
**Jakarta, Indonesia:** The number of people living with dementia in Indonesia is set to skyrocket to 4 million by 2050, a staggering 300% increase from the current estimate of 1.2 million, according to Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) and Alzheimer’s Indonesia (Alzi). This alarming prediction has prompted urgent calls for action during World Alzheimer’s Month.
ADI and Alzi are urging the government, communities, and individuals to raise awareness and fight stigma surrounding dementia. “While public awareness of dementia and Alzheimer’s is growing, it’s crucial to understand that everyone can play a role in preventing it,” said DY Suharya, Founder of Alzi.
The organizations are highlighting the need for early diagnosis and support for those living with dementia. “Many people ignore the early symptoms of Alzheimer’s dementia due to low awareness, stigma, misinformation, and discrimination,” explained ADI CEO Paola Barbarino. “Currently, 75% of those living with dementia remain undiagnosed. Timely diagnosis allows access to post-diagnosis support, enabling them to live longer, better, and more independently.”
The economic impact of dementia is also significant, with the global annual cost estimated at US$1.3 trillion, projected to double to US$2.8 trillion by 2030.
Indonesia has already developed a National Dementia Action Plan, but the implementation of these plans lags behind globally. “While 40 countries, including Indonesia, have developed and launched National Dementia Action Plans, many lack a comprehensive strategy to address stigma and support people with dementia and their caregivers,” emphasized ADI.
Alzi and ADI are urging the government to expand these plans to include strong public awareness campaigns and initiatives that foster an inclusive and supportive society. “We believe that by increasing awareness and integrating dementia care into national policies, we can better address the upcoming surge of dementia patients,” said Prof Yuda Turana, Rector of Atma Jaya Catholic University.
This alarming situation underscores the critical need for a proactive approach to tackling dementia. The #TimeToActOnDementia and #TimeToActOnAlzheimers hashtags are being used throughout September to raise global attention and encourage proactive measures towards better understanding, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive care for those living with dementia.
First Piper 