š§ World Alzheimerās Day ā 2024 – šÆ Theme: Raising Awareness, Reducing Stigma
š
Date: September 21, 2024
š Venue: Seminar Hall, Sree Abirami College of Pharmacy (SACOP), Coimbatore
š Overview
World Alzheimerās Day, observed every year on September 21, is a globally recognized initiative to raise awareness, promote early detection, and combat the stigma associated with Alzheimerās disease and other forms of dementia. With over 55 million people worldwide currently living with dementia, the day plays a crucial role in educating communities and inspiring action in healthcare and research.
In line with this global movement, Sree Abirami College of Pharmacy (SACOP), Coimbatore, marked the occasion with an enlightening and engaging event, organized by Dr. P. Aravanan, Professor and Head of the Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis. The event brought together students, faculty, and healthcare professionals to reflect on the challenges of Alzheimerās disease and the role of pharmaceutical education in creating awareness.
š Inauguration Ceremony
The event commenced at 10:30 AM in the SACOP Seminar Hall, with a prayer song performed by the talented students of III B.Pharm, setting a serene and respectful tone for the gathering.
The welcome address was delivered by Dr. P. Aravanan, who also extended his gratitude to the guest speaker and highlighted the increasing need for awareness among future pharmacists regarding neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimerās. He stressed the importance of early intervention, research, and interdisciplinary collaboration to manage and potentially delay the progression of dementia.
šļø Keynote Address by Chief Guest
The guest of honor and keynote speaker for the day was Dr. K. Naresh Babu, M.O.T (Neuro), M.Sc (Psychology), F.A.O.T (Neuro), Ph.D (O.T), and Principal of Sree Abirami College of Occupational Therapy, Coimbatore. He was warmly felicitated with a shawl by Dr. P. Aravanan as a mark of respect and appreciation.
In his powerful and insightful speech, Dr. Naresh Babu emphasized the following critical points:
- The importance of early diagnosis in improving outcomes for Alzheimerās patients
- The role of multidisciplinary therapeutic interventions in managing symptoms
- The emotional and psychological challenges faced by caregivers and family members
- The growing need for community awareness and compassionate healthcare systems
He also addressed the vital contribution of pharmacists and occupational therapists in improving the quality of life for Alzheimerās patients through medication management, patient education, and community outreach. His interactive session with students allowed them to raise thoughtful questions and gain a clearer understanding of their future role in neuropharmacology and dementia care.
š¼ļø Student Poster Presentation
As part of the event, a poster presentation competition was conducted, allowing students from various pharmacy programs to showcase their knowledge and research on Alzheimerās disease. Topics ranged from:
- Lifestyle modifications for prevention
- Early signs and symptoms
- Innovations in pharmacological treatment
- Non-pharmacological approaches to care
The posters were informative and creatively presented, making the session both educational and visually engaging. The Chief Guest personally distributed prizes to the winners, appreciating their efforts and encouraging them to pursue further research in the field of neuroscience and pharmacovigilance.
š Conclusion & Vote of Thanks
The event concluded on a high note with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Ms. M. L. Indhu Mathi, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis. She acknowledged the efforts of the organizing team, the guidance of the college management, the inspiration provided by the guest speaker, and the enthusiastic participation of students.
The program ended at 12:30 PM with the National Anthem, reinforcing the collective spirit and commitment of Sree Abirami College of Pharmacy toward advancing healthcare education and community well-being.
š Impact & Outcome
The World Alzheimerās Day 2024 celebration at SACOP was a thought-provoking, student-centric initiative that raised meaningful awareness about Alzheimerās disease. The event fostered knowledge sharing, encouraged social responsibility, and reminded future healthcare professionals of their critical role in supporting patients and families affected by this devastating condition.
By engaging students in scientific dialogue, creative expression, and real-world healthcare conversations, Sree Abirami College of Pharmacy continues to uphold its mission of shaping competent, compassionate, and socially responsible pharmacists.