The National Orientation Agency, NOA, Osun State Directorate, has urged Nigerians to seek early diagnosis and provide support for people living with dementia as the world marks World Alzheimer’s Day 2026.
The agency made the call in a statement signed by its State Director, Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, and issued by its Public Relations Officer, Bunmi Olaseinde, on Monday, as part of activities to commemorate World Alzheimer’s Day, observed globally on September 21.
The 2026 observance is being held under the theme, “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.”
Adefarasin said, “Memory loss and behavioural changes among older people should not automatically be dismissed as part of normal ageing.”
He identified frequent memory loss, difficulty performing familiar tasks, confusion, poor communication, and changes in mood or personality as some of the warning signs associated with dementia.
He said, “Early diagnosis is important because it helps families understand the condition and enables affected persons to access timely medical care.
“Early diagnosis would also enable families to plan ahead and make informed decisions concerning the care and wellbeing of people living with dementia.”
Adefarasin urged families and communities to treat people living with dementia with dignity, respect and compassion, while rejecting stigma and discrimination against them.
He called on members of the public to learn about the warning signs, seek medical attention when necessary, support patients and caregivers, and promote the inclusion of people living with dementia in society.
The Osun State Directorate of the NOA reaffirmed its call for greater public awareness of dementia and encouraged communities to support early diagnosis and compassionate care for affected individuals and their caregivers.