A series of Ageing Enrichment Seminars will begin this month targeting caregivers within the Virgin Islands community.

The seminars dubbed ‘Lunch and Learn’ have been organised by the Social Development Department to sensitise the public on ageing and elderly matters.

Head of Aged Care Services with the Social Development Department, Ms. Shirma George, said the aim is to provide the public with a better understanding of some of the challenges and illnesses that plague the ageing population as well as lend support to their loved ones and caregivers.

The first seminar will discuss the topic of “Living with Alzheimer’s...What Every Caregiver Should Know’. The interactive presentation will highlight the present forms and causes of dementia, warning signs, risk factors, safety issues and current medical treatment.  The seminar will take place on March 24 at the Road Town Senior Citizens Building across from BVI Red Cross and will begin at 12 noon until 1:00 p.m. A light lunch will be provided to those in attendance.

 Psychiatrist of Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services at the BVI Health Services Authority, Dr. Jardine Davies R. Torno, will be the guest speaker. Dates of the other seminars will be provided in the coming weeks.

Persons interested in attending the Ageing Enrichment Seminars are asked to contact the Social Development Department at 468-3650.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development aspires to provide a caring and integrated system of health and social services that facilitates human development and improves the quality of life in the Virgin Islands.