As the world observes World Alzheimer’s Day today, the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GPDSD) is calling for greater awareness, understanding and support for older persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, as well as the families and caregivers who support them.
World Alzheimer’s Day is observed on 21 September each year and forms part of World Alzheimer’s Month, which seeks to raise awareness, challenge stigma and encourage people to seek information and support. The 2026 campaign places a particular focus on early diagnosis under the theme, “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.”
The Gauteng Department of Social Development provides a range of services to older persons, including independent and assisted living, frail care and community-based care and support interventions. The Department also works with funded Non-Profit Organisations to provide social work and other support services to older persons, including assistance related to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
These services are aimed at ensuring that older persons can live with dignity and receive appropriate care and support, while families and caregivers are assisted to cope with the challenges associated with ageing and conditions that affect memory, behaviour and daily functioning.
MEC for Social Development, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, said the Department recognises that Alzheimer’s disease affects not only the individual but the entire family.
“On World Alzheimer’s Day, we are reminded that behind every person with Alzheimer’s or dementia is a family and a community that also needs support. As the Department, our responsibility is to ensure that older persons are treated with dignity and compassion and that families are not left to face these challenges on their own. Through our services to older persons and our partnerships with community-based organisations, we continue to provide social support, care and referrals to ensure that those who need assistance can access the appropriate services,” said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The Department encourages families and caregivers to pay attention to significant changes in memory, behaviour or a person’s ability to manage everyday activities and to seek professional assistance rather than dismissing these changes as a normal part of ageing.
Early identification can help families better understand what they are dealing with, plan and access available care and support. The international 2026 campaign similarly highlights the importance of diagnosis in opening access to treatment, care and support options.
The Department also emphasises the importance of protecting older persons from neglect, abuse and social isolation. Families, communities, caregivers, Social Workers and organisations working with older persons all have a role to play in creating environments where people living with dementia are respected and supported.
“We must build communities where ageing is not associated with neglect or isolation. Our older persons remain valued members of our families and communities. We therefore urge families and communities to show patience, provide support and seek assistance when it is needed. No with Alzheimer’s should feel that they have been forgotten.”
The Department continues to work with stakeholders and Non-Profit Organisations to strengthen services for older persons across the province, while promoting awareness of their rights and access to appropriate care and support.