Wheatley Urges Early Dementia Diagnosis In BVI
Health Minister Vincent Wheatley has urged Virgin Islands residents to seek early medical evaluations for dementia symptoms rather than dismissing them as normal ageing. The territory is observing World Alzheimer's Month to boost awareness, tackle stigma, and provide support for families and caregivers.
Health Minister Vincent Wheatley has issued a call for Virgin Islands residents to seek prompt medical advice at the first signs of memory loss or cognitive decline, stressing that dementia must not be dismissed as a normal part of the ageing process. The minister made the appeal in observance of World Alzheimer’s Month, held under the theme, "The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters." The territorial observance focuses on raising awareness, challenging social stigma, encouraging timely medical diagnosis, and expanding support networks for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
According to data from the National Health Insurance (NHI), 188 individuals across the territory have received an official diagnosis of dementia. However, health officials caution that the condition remains significantly underdiagnosed, meaning many individuals experiencing memory impairment or behavioural changes are navigating the condition without formal medical backing or proper resources.
The Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association previously estimated that more than 300 residents may be living with dementia when factoring in undiagnosed cases. Wheatley explained that obtaining an early diagnosis offers individuals and their families crucial time to plan, access vital care resources, and actively participate in decisions regarding their future healthcare.
He addressed the cultural tendency in many communities to brush off cognitive changes as ordinary elderly behaviour, reinforcing that seeking medical guidance is essential. The Ministry of Health also underscored the link between dementia and non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and obesity.
To help reduce risk factors, health officials encourage residents to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, including eating balanced diets, exercising regularly, keeping blood pressure and sugar levels in check, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol intake, and staying socially engaged. Wheatley also praised local caregivers who provide daily support to family members with dementia, acknowledging that their demanding responsibilities represent a vital service to the community.
He commended the ongoing work of the Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association alongside international efforts to treat dementia as a critical public health priority.
Primary source: BVI News