Early Diagnosis of Dementia, Join Suwon City

Suwon City has launched the "2007 Elderly Dementia Project" to provide early diagnosis, treatment, and counseling for dementia to elderly citizens aged 65 and older and citizens showing symptoms of dementia.

The city plans to conduct free simple dementia screening tests and provide wheelchair rentals and identification bracelets for elderly dementia patients.

When the family members or the individual showing suspected symptoms of dementia, or the relevant dong office (district administrative office) requests a free simple screening at the health center, the health center notifies the Suwon Mental Health Center of the referral status.

Upon receiving notice of screening subjects, the Mental Health Center will either visit the referral party's home on a designated date or conduct a simple dementia screening for subjects who visit the center.

If dementia-related abnormalities are detected from the screening results, the center will refer the subject to a specialized hospital affiliated with the center for detailed dementia examinations including dementia rating scales and neuropsychological assessments, while conducting dementia prevention education once every quarter. The cost of detailed examinations is the responsibility of the individual.

Additionally, the health center provides free dementia identification bracelets upon request to prevent elderly dementia patients from getting lost or going missing.

Furthermore, Suwon's visiting health centers organize family meetings once a month for families caring for elderly dementia patients, allowing them to share concerns and exchange information.

As of the end of December 2006, the number of elderly citizens aged 65 and older in Suwon was 61,223, of which 8.3%, or 5,082 elderly citizens, were found to be suffering from dementia.

A mental health official at Yeongdeungpo District Health Center stated, "The most important aspect of dementia treatment is early diagnosis and treatment initiation at the early stage when brain damage is minor," and added, "Through early treatment, mental function should be maintained and maximized as much as possible."

Inquiries: Jangan-gu Health Center 228-4136, Gwonseon-gu 228-4165, Paldal-gu 228-4194, Yeongtong-gu 228-4575