SCAN, Social Welfare Dept hold free medical camp in Pughoboto

Zunheboto, October 12 (MExN): The Senior Citizens Association of Nagaland (SCAN), in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare, Nagaland, organised a senior citizens’ health awareness talk and launched a free medical camp at Government High School, Asükiqa, Pughoboto, Zunheboto, on October 10.Around 300 villagers from Asükiqa and four neighbouring villages turned up for the camp to avail themselves of the free health check-ups, medical consultations and medicines. A team of eight doctors, comprising specialists, general medicine practitioners and dentists, along with nurses, attended to the patients, stated a DIPR report. The camp was supported by volunteer doctors Dr Vivito Khala, Dr Ilokali Khala, Dr Limeka Assumi, Dr Angukato Yepthomi and Dr Kavi Wotsa. SCAN members Dr Thorsie Katiry, Dr Watikala and Dr K Phapino were also present.Delivering the health awareness talk on dementia, Convener of the Free Medical Camp, Dr Thorsie Katiry, explained that dementia is associated with a decline in cognitive functions, including memory, thinking, communication and judgement. He highlighted ageing as a major risk factor and spoke about other possible causes, including Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, infections and certain medications.He outlined the signs and symptoms of dementia, including forgetfulness, confusion, disorientation, difficulty acquiring new information, reduced communication, mood changes, restlessness, sleep disturbances and hallucinations. He stressed the importance of recognising the symptoms early and seeking appropriate medical attention.Dr Katiry encouraged families and caregivers to support older persons through regular physical exercise, activities that stimulate cognitive abilities, and patient and compassionate care. He advised caregivers to communicate clearly, avoid arguments and exercise caution when persons with dementia engage in activities such as driving, cooking or handling financial matters.In his welcome address, Vice President of SCAN, Limawati Longchar, said that the association had organised the programme to provide essential medical services to senior citizens. He thanked the village community for making arrangements for the programme, and acknowledged the doctors and nurses for coming forward to serve beyond their regular duties. He emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment, urging those present to make use of the opportunity to address their health concerns.Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary villages, Joint Council Chairman Asheto Achumi thanked SCAN, the doctors and the medical team for travelling to the area to provide free medical services. He also acknowledged the participation and support of the village leaders.Camp Advisor, S Ghunakha Swu thanked SCAN, the doctors, nurses, pastors and the headmaster of the school for their support in organising the programme. He noted that the initiative was the first of its kind organised by SCAN in the district as part of its efforts to reach out to senior citizens.The programme was chaired by SCAN President, Dr I Pihoto Khala, while the invocation prayer was offered by Pastor Shikiho Chophi of Tsaphimi Baptist Church. The programme concluded with a prayer for the launch of the free medical camp offered by Pastor Z Yekivi Swu of Ghokimi Baptist Church.Five representatives from the National Helpline for Senior Citizens (Elderline) also participated in the programme.