LOIS GRANT SAYS, CRISIS IN ELDERLY MENTAL HEALTH - URGENT NEED FOR SOCIETAL AWARENESS AND ACTION!

CONTINUING MY ADVOCACY FOR THE ELDERLY...This story was posted 2 years ago. It's been upgraded and shortened but still very relevant. Nothing has changed. Jamaica does not care for its elderly and ageing:

Dealing with the mentally ill, particularly the elderly, requires urgent attention and decisive action. Observing a friend's deteriorating mental health due to dementia, it's evident that individuals with once active and brilliant minds, such as teachers, lawyers, and doctors, are particularly vulnerable. Despite this, the affected person may resist acknowledging their condition.

From a recent experience, and as a concerned neighbour, I  stepped in, offering assistance while the family deliberated on the next steps, considering options like hiring a caregiver or relocating to a care facility. 

However, the person in question denied her declining health, exhibiting concerning behaviours like misplacing items, hallucinating, and expressing intentions to use public transport without a clear destination. There's a genuine fear of a tragic outcome, similar to previous cases where individuals with cognitive impairments went missing.

The church, a pillar of support in this person’s life, was consulted to assist in decision-making, highlighting the lack of a comprehensive societal approach to address ageing-related mental health issues. The family's indecision raises concerns about potential harm to the elderly person and the community. In cases like these immediate action is essential to prevent accidents like kitchen fires or criminal incidents due to his/her vulnerability.

The prevailing challenge lies in society's limited understanding of mental illness, especially in the elderly. Despite visible signs, reluctance to acknowledge the issue persists, contributing to delayed interventions. Existing government policies seem inadequate, with a lack of trained professionals to handle the complexities of dementia and Alzheimer's cases.

The urgency of the situation demands a shift in societal mindset, recognizing that individuals with cognitive impairments may not have the capacity to make decisions about their care. Relying on untrained individuals in government agencies to manage such cases is insufficient. There's a need for comprehensive training programmes to equip professionals to handle the unique challenges of elderly individuals with mental health issues.

The prevailing stigma surrounding mental illness further complicates matters, with individuals and families hesitant to admit when a loved one is struggling. This attitude is detrimental, especially considering these individuals' valuable contributions to society in their prime.

 It is crucial to foster a supportive environment that prioritises the dignity and well-being of the elderly, ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve.

Seniors keeping fit.

Click to watch this video of elderly citizens who were taken out to have fun.

Writer, Lois Grant

Lois Grant

Lois Grant - JP, MA, BA (Hons), Dip Mass Comm, Cert. Broadcast Journalism BBC-London, is a distinguished communications professional with a legacy of groundbreaking achievements. From her early days at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) to leading the Public Relations unit at Grimax Advertising. She co-founded Innercity Promotions, celebrated for pioneering live dance hall concerts. In the '90s, Grant established her agency, Corporate Image Communications and Productions, creating innovative events for brands like Tastee Limited, COK Credit Union, and the Jamaica National Building Society. Her impact extends to shaping the political landscape of three Caribbean islands., Jamaica included. She was a former Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister of Jamaica (2007-2013). Grant continues to contribute as a consultant working for prestigious entities such as the US Network, NBC Sports and more recently as a travel influencer.

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