SCAN provides free healthcare services to 300 villagers in Zunheboto and raises awareness about dementia and elderly care.
DIMAPUR — The Senior Citizens Association of Nagaland (SCAN), in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare, organised a senior citizens’ health awareness talk and launched a free medical camp at Government High School, Asükiqa, Zunheboto district, on October 10.
Around 300 villagers from Asükiqa and four neighbouring villages availed themselves of free health check-ups, medical consultations and medicines, a DIPR report stated.
A team of eight doctors, including specialists, general physicians and dentists, along with nurses, attended to the patients.
The camp also featured a health awareness talk on dementia delivered by camp convener Dr. Thorsie Katiry.
He explained that dementia involves a decline in cognitive functions, including memory, thinking, communication and judgement. While ageing is a major risk factor, he said other causes may include Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, infections and certain medications.
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Dr. Katiry outlined common signs and symptoms, including forgetfulness, confusion, disorientation, difficulty learning new information, reduced communication, mood changes, restlessness, sleep disturbances and hallucinations.
He stressed the importance of recognising symptoms early and seeking appropriate medical attention.
Emphasising the role of families and caregivers, he encouraged regular physical exercise, activities that stimulate cognitive abilities, and patient and compassionate care for older persons.
He also advised caregivers to communicate clearly, avoid arguments and exercise caution when persons with dementia engage in activities such as driving, cooking or handling financial matters.
In his welcome address, SCAN vice president Limawati Longchar said the programme was organised to provide essential medical services to senior citizens.
He thanked the village community for making the necessary arrangements and acknowledged the doctors and nurses for volunteering their services beyond their regular duties.
He also emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment, urging villagers to make use of the opportunity to address their health concerns.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary villages, Joint Council Chairman Asheto Achumi thanked SCAN and the medical team for travelling to the area to provide free healthcare services.
He also acknowledged the participation and support of village leaders.
Camp advisor S Ghunakha Swu thanked SCAN, the doctors, nurses, pastors and the school headmaster for supporting the initiative.
He noted that the programme was the first of its kind organised by SCAN in the district as part of its efforts to reach out to senior citizens.
Volunteer doctors who supported the camp included Dr. Vivito Khala, Dr. Ilokali Khala, Dr. Limeka Assumi, Dr. Angukato Yepthomi and Dr. Kavi Wotsa.
SCAN members Dr. Thorsie Katiry, Dr. Watikala and Dr. K Phapino were also present.
Five representatives from the National Helpline for Senior Citizens (Elderline) participated in the programme.