A consultant neurologist at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Dr. Temitope Farombi, has urged Nigerians to stop stigmatising individuals living with dementia, calling for empathy, understanding, and practical support rather than pity or discrimination.

Farombi, founder of Brain Health Initiative Nigeria (BHIN) and CEO of Brain Centre Neurocritical and Neurorehabilitation Services, made the appeal during a public awareness campaign across major markets in Ibadan to mark World Alzheimer’s Day 2025, observed globally every September 21.

This year’s theme, “Ask About Dementia, Ask About Alzheimer’s,” seeks to encourage conversations and improve understanding of the condition.

Farombi explained that dementia is a brain disease linked to aging, not a spiritual problem as often believed, and can be managed with early intervention.

“Stigma and ignorance lead to neglect. With proper support, people with dementia can live meaningful and dignified lives,” she said.

She identified modifiable risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, alcohol abuse, sedentary lifestyle, pollution, hearing loss, depression, and social isolation, and noted that addressing them could reduce dementia risk by up to 40 percent.

Farombi stressed the importance of early detection, urging individuals showing memory loss, confusion, or disorientation to seek medical help rather than hide for fear of stigma.

“We must replace pity with empathy and judgment with support. Anyone can develop dementia as they age,” she said.

She called for greater public education and compassion, emphasizing that collective support can help those affected live better lives.