The Nicosia District Committee of the Cyprus Alzheimer Association was invited to honour International Woman’s Day celebrations, organised by the Mayor of the Geri Municipality, in a very special way. The event focused on the theme “Is Alzheimer’s disease a Women’s issue?” based on the fact that there is a higher incidence of Alzheimer’s disease among women than men, the ratio being 3:2.
The event was hosted at the Geri Municipality building on the evening of 7 March 2019 and was open to the public. Held under the auspices of the Mayor’s wife Kyproulla Papalazarou, it was attended by a large audience in the presence of three Mayors, namely those of the Geri, Latsia and Tseri Municipalities, and was a big success. Mrs Papalazarou also invited the Geri Municipality Choir to sing during the event; the choir chose melodies from the past which further emphasised the importance of memories.
The keynote speaker was Professor Savvas Papacostas, Neurologist at the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics in Nicosia and the founding consultant of the Nicosia District Committee of the Cyprus Alzheimer Association. Prof. Papacostas gave an interesting and informative presentation, explaining what Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is about and how it can be medically addressed and prevented.
The President of the Cyprus Alzheimer Association, Antigoni Diakou also addressed the public and presented the activities of the Association and how its volunteers can help those in need. The public was reminded that the relevant medication is provided for free by state hospitals thanks to the Association’s persistent efforts. Ms Diakou asked the public to fight the stigma that exists around Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Ms Diakou also invited the three Mayors present to consider creating Dementia Friendly Communities in their respective municipalities; an invitation that the Mayors welcomed!