Dementia currently affects more than 57 million people worldwide, with nearly 10 million new cases diagnosed each year. It is the seventh leading cause of death globally and a major contributor to disability among older adults. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, accounts for up to 70% of these cases. In the Philippines, the impact goes beyond the patients themselves. Because care is still largely home-based and formal support services remain limited, families—especially women—carry most of the caregiving responsibilities. Women also face higher risks of disability and mortality, adding to the weight of this challenge.
To address these gaps, the Philippine Dementia and Alzheimer Care Policy (House Bill No. 185) has been filed in the House of Representatives. The measure seeks to establish a national program for early detection, treatment, and comprehensive support for both patients and caregivers. As Congress deliberates on this bill and with World Alzheimer’s Day approaching this September, LAC Philippines underscores the urgent need for accessible brain health solutions that safeguard cognitive function and improve quality of life.
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Addressing Dementia: Why Early Action and Everyday Brain Care Matter |