Amman, Feb 18 (Petra) -- HRH Princess Muna Al Hussein chaired the first meeting of the advisory board of the Jordan Alzheimer Care Association on Monday at the King Hussein Club.

In her capacity as honorary global ambassador for Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), and chair of the Jordan Alzheimer Care Association’s advisory board, Her Highness opened the meeting with a welcoming address to the board members, expressing her appreciation for the extensive experience they bring to the association, which, she said, is invaluable to its mission and objectives.

Princess Muna also commended the efforts of administrative and general bodies in raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, and providing support to those living with dementia, as well as their families and caregivers.

During the meeting, Her Royal Highness called for the establishment of a national registry, explaining that this humanitarian-focused effort is a national and societal duty.

Princess Muna highlighted the advisory board’s vital role in supporting the association through their scientific and technical expertise, including supporting the development of strategic plans, awareness programs, and support services for patients and families.

During the inaugural meeting, Karim Kawar was appointed vice president of the advisory board, followed by introductions of the advisory board members, who expressed their pride in being selected, and their readiness to dedicate their time and expertise to supporting the association’s work and future plans.

President of the Alzheimer’s Care Association Reem Abu Hassan presented a detailed overview of the association’s establishment, management, committees, and key activities.

These include community awareness programs for university students, training for medical personnel, development of psychosocial support services, efforts to strengthen partnerships with health and government entities, and the development of technological initiatives that contribute to patient protection and improve their quality of life.

She also highlighted the importance of the association’s pioneering ‘Eye Locate’ initiative, which is designed to quickly identify and reunite lost dementia patients with their families using iris-recognition technology.

Abu Hassan noted the cooperation agreement between the association and the White Beds Society to establish a day club and various activities for Alzheimer’s patients.

She also highlighted coordination efforts with the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities aimed at unifying work on creation of a national registry.

During the meeting, the advisory board also reviewed priorities for the upcoming phase, in particular, coordination with the Ministry of Health on the National Dementia Plan, and establishment of a framework for joint work between the association’s advisory and administrative boards.

The framework aims to enhance the association’s programs and expand its impact at the national level, in line with its vision and mission.

The meeting emphasized the importance of continued coordination between advisory board members and the association, and establishing clear follow-up mechanisms to ensure effective implementation of the proposed recommendations and initiatives.

//Petra//SS