02/09/2026
As South Africa observes World Alzheimer’s Month in September, families are being encouraged to recognise the warning signs of dementia, start conversations early and seek professional help when changes in memory or behaviour become challenging.
The 2026 theme from Alzheimer’s Disease International is The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters. World Alzheimer’s Day is 21 September.
Thakane Raditapole from the Association for Dementia and Alzheimer’s of South Africa (Adasa) said early diagnosis matters medically, practically and emotionally.
“Fear is normal. Many people are afraid of losing independence, being labelled, or becoming a burden. I would say that noticing change is courageous, not a weakness. But avoiding a check-up also takes away options.”
Sincere thanks to
Early dementia diagnosis can help families recognise warning signs, seek support, plan ahead and make informed decisions about care.
Read more:
https://www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za/alzheimers-know-early-act-early/
