MUSCAT – Purple Cafe, an initiative of Oman Alzheimer’s Society, OAS, for the caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients, held their annual event at Intercity Hotel, Bawsher, to mark the World Alzheimer’s Month.
At the event, participants reflected on how the journey of caring for a loved one with dementia can, despite its many challenges, brought families closer and together. Many shared how difficult it is in the beginning to recognise the early signs of the illness, with denial often being the first response. This stage is frequently accompanied by feelings of guilt and a kind of early grief, as families begin to realise the changes and challenges that lay ahead.
Importance of reaching out
“A central part of the discussion focused on where to turn for help. Caregivers highlighted the importance of reaching out—to healthcare providers, community resources, and support groups like Purple Cafe—to avoid feeling isolated in the process,” noted Dr Hamed Al Sinawi, chairman of OAS, senior consultant geriatric psychiatry and head of department of behavioural medicine at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. The group also spoke about the later stages of the illness, when communication becomes limited and care needs become more demanding. Members reflected on how to continue showing love and affection in simple but powerful ways—through touch, presence, and small gestures of kindness.
Need for accessible medical services
Some of the caregivers shared their struggle with getting medical services for bedridden and non-communicating patients and spoke of the need to have accessible medical services, like home visits.
Nasser Al Riyami shared his experience noting how a family member with Alzheimer’s stopped talking to them. “But we talk to him every day,” he said adding how the member was taken out for walks and beach visits, which was necessary for all such patients. He stressed on the need to have “hand rails at home because falls are dangerous”. Riyami said that they lived in the hope that one day, a cure for Alzheimer’s would be found. Caregivers also exchanged tips about feeding, sharing experiences and strategies that have worked for them in easing mealtime challenges. These small but meaningful pieces of advice offered reassurance and a reminder that no one is alone in facing the day-to-day realities of caregiving.
Photos: Anirudh A
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