GREAT BAY--Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) Claret Connor is encouraging residents to recognize the warning signs of dementia, protect their brain health and support families affected by Alzheimer’s disease as St. Maarten joins the global observance of World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21, 2026.
This year’s international theme,“The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters,”focuses attention on the importance of recognizing possible symptoms and seeking timely medical evaluation. Earlier diagnosis can provide individuals and families with greater opportunity to access appropriate care, explore treatment options and support services, and make informed decisions about future needs.
“Early detection saves lives and preserves quality of life,” Minister Connor said. “By understanding the warning signs and taking action promptly, our citizens can access the medical support they need and make informed decisions about their future care. We are committed to ensuring that no one faces dementia alone.”
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Minister Connor stressed that while occasional forgetfulness can occur as people age, persistent memory loss and cognitive changes that interfere with everyday life should not simply be dismissed as part of getting older.
Among the warning signs residents should be aware of are memory loss that disrupts daily life, including repeatedly forgetting recently learned information, important dates or asking the same questions; difficulty planning or solving problems, such as managing finances, following recipes or completing tasks involving several steps; and difficulty completing familiar activities, including preparing meals or travelling to familiar places.
Other warning signs can include confusion about time or place; difficulty with visual images and spatial relationships; problems finding words or following conversations; frequently misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps; noticeable changes in judgment; withdrawal from work or social activities; and changes in mood or personality, including increased confusion, anxiety, suspicion or irritability.
Residents who notice persistent symptoms in themselves or a loved one are encouraged to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation rather than attempting to diagnose the condition themselves.
There is no single test used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Physicians may use a combination of medical history, physical and neurological examinations, cognitive and functional assessments, laboratory tests and other advanced evaluations when clinically necessary.
Reducing the Risk of Dementia
Minister Connor also highlighted the importance of healthy lifestyle choices, noting that research has identified several modifiable risk factors associated with dementia.
Residents are encouraged to protect their physical and cardiovascular health through regular exercise, healthy blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol management, maintaining a healthy body weight, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.
Adults should aim for approximately 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week through activities such as walking, swimming, dancing or sports, while following the recommendations of their healthcare providers based on their individual health circumstances.
Mental and social activity are also important components of healthy aging. Residents are encouraged to continue learning throughout life, maintain relationships with family and friends, participate in mentally stimulating activities, take part in community activities and volunteer where possible.
Attention should also be given to hearing and vision problems, adequate sleep, protection from head injuries and reducing exposure to environmental risk factors where possible. Seatbelts, helmets and measures to prevent falls in the home are among the practical steps individuals and families can take.
Mental Health and Nutrition Matter
Maintaining good mental health also forms part of a broader approach to reducing risk and supporting healthy aging.
Residents experiencing depression or anxiety are encouraged to seek professional support rather than allowing these conditions to go untreated. Managing stress through healthy coping strategies and social support can also contribute to overall wellbeing.
A balanced diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats is also encouraged. Dietary approaches such as the Mediterranean and MIND diets are among those associated with healthy aging and brain health.
“While these measures significantly reduce dementia risk, no single intervention guarantees prevention. A holistic approach to healthy aging is most effective,” Minister Connor said.
Supporting Individuals and Families
Minister Connor encouraged residents to use World Alzheimer’s Day as an opportunity to discuss cognitive health openly with relatives and loved ones.
Families should learn the warning signs, discuss concerns without stigma and encourage anyone experiencing persistent symptoms to seek medical evaluation. Residents are also encouraged to begin brain-healthy lifestyle practices before problems develop and to support caregivers who often carry significant emotional and practical responsibilities.
The Minister said reducing stigma remains especially important because fear, embarrassment or misconceptions about Alzheimer’s disease can prevent people from discussing symptoms or seeking help.
Residents are therefore encouraged to speak openly about Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and cognitive health, while treating those living with these conditions and their caregivers with dignity and compassion.
“This World Alzheimer’s Day, we commit to supporting our citizens, both those living with dementia and their caregivers, with compassion, resources, and access to quality care,” Minister Connor stated. “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our families and community.”
The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor will continue promoting prevention, health education, early recognition of health concerns and support for individuals and families affected by chronic and age-related conditions.
