The Osun State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency has urged families to seek medical attention when elderly relatives begin showing persistent signs of memory loss or behavioural changes.
The call was made on Monday as the world marked World Alzheimer’s Day 2026, observed annually on September 21.
In a statement signed by the agency’s State Director, Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, and issued by its Public Relations Officer, Bunmi Olaseinde, the NOA said dementia-related symptoms should not automatically be dismissed as normal ageing.
This year’s observance is themed, “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.”
Adefarasin listed frequent memory loss, difficulty carrying out familiar tasks, confusion, communication problems and changes in mood or personality among warning signs that may require medical attention.
He said obtaining a diagnosis early could help families understand the condition, access appropriate care and make informed decisions about the long-term wellbeing of affected persons.
The NOA director also urged relatives and caregivers to ensure that people living with dementia are treated with dignity and compassion, warning against stigma and discrimination.
He encouraged members of the public to learn about dementia, support caregivers and promote the inclusion of affected persons in family and community life.
The agency said greater public awareness remained necessary to encourage timely diagnosis and improve support for people living with dementia and their caregivers.
World Alzheimer Day: Osun NOA urges Nigerians to seek early diagnosis
