Amman, Sept 21 (Petra) – Jordan Nursing Council (JNC) Secretary-General Hani Nawafleh on Monday stressed the importance of enhancing early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

He called for translating awareness into practical pathways regarding education, specialization, and care, thereby supporting those living with the disease, their families, and caregivers.

In an interview with Petra marking World Alzheimer’s Day, observed this year under the theme "The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters," Nawafleh said early diagnosis provides more effective intervention, care, and planning.

"This approach aligns with the vision championed by HRH Princess Muna Al-Hussein, Patron of Nursing and Midwifery in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, President of the JNC, and Honorary Ambassador to Alzheimer's Disease International, which prioritizes sustained attention to Alzheimer’s and elderly care, aiming to combat stigma and support patients and their families," he said.

Under Her Highness's guidance, the Council has moved beyond mere awareness-raising to establishing an advanced professional pathway, which culminated in the launch of a specialization in "Geriatric Nursing" to develop qualified personnel equipped with clinical skills, decision-making capabilities, and the ability to provide evidence-based care," said Nawafleh.

These professionals are trained to address complex health needs, cognitive changes, and chronic diseases, ultimately enhancing the quality of care while preserving patients' dignity and independence, he said.

Nawafleh proposed integrating the needs of the elderly and Alzheimer’s patients into nursing curricula and clinical training programs, which should cover risk factors, early signs, cognitive assessment, referral mechanisms, communication skills, and family support, thereby building a professional workforce capable of early detection and managing complex cases.

The Council, he noted, had previously organized the first national dialogue forum on Alzheimer’s disease under the patronage of Princess Muna Al-Hussein. It came up with key recommendations, including developing a national care strategy, establishing a national Alzheimer’s registry, enhancing early detection, building the capacity of healthcare personnel, supporting scientific research, and improving healthcare environments for the elderly.

Nawafleh pointed out that nursing serves as a crucial frontline for early detection due to nurses' proximity to patients and their families, their ability to observe behavioral and physiological changes, and their role in health education and safety promotion.

He said the occasion coincides with the release of the World Alzheimer Report 2026, titled "A New Era for Dementia Clinical Trials", which highlights shifts in dementia research and clinical trials, as well as the importance of inclusivity in these areas.

Nawafleh said addressing the disease is a national responsibility requiring the integration of efforts across health, academic, and social institutions.

An early diagnosis does not mark the end of the road, but the beginning of a journey focused on care, support, and the preservation of dignity and quality of life, he said.

//Petra//SS