SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (Minister VSA) Hon. Claret Connor said on Sunday that the world will be observing World Alzheimer's Day on September 21, 2026, under the international theme: "The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters."
This year's observance underscores a critical truth: early recognition and timely diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can fundamentally improve outcomes, enabling individuals and families to access appropriate care, treatment options, and support services.
"Early detection saves lives and preserves quality of life," said Hon. Claret Connor, Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor. "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."
Understanding the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's Disease
While occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, persistent memory loss and cognitive decline are not. Sint Maarten residents should watch for these warning signs:
Memory Loss Disrupting Daily Life – Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or repeatedly asking the same questions; Challenges in Planning or Problem-Solving – Difficulty managing tasks with multiple steps, such as following recipes, paying bills, or managing finances;
Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks – Struggling with routine activities like driving to familiar places or preparing meals; Confusion with Time or Place – Losing track of dates, seasons, or becoming disoriented in familiar locations; Problems with Visual Images and Spatial Relationships – Difficulty reading, judging distances, or determining color contrast; Trouble Finding Words or Following Conversations – Difficulty joining conversations, repeating oneself, or struggling to name familiar objects; Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps – Placing items in unusual locations and becoming unable to remember where they were left; Decreased or Poor Judgment – Making unusual financial decisions or neglecting personal hygiene; Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities – Isolating oneself due to difficulty keeping up with conversations or activities; Changes in Mood and Personality – Becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, anxious, or easily upset.
If you or a loved one experience these symptoms, consult a healthcare provider promptly for evaluation. Early diagnosis is essential. There is no single test for Alzheimer's disease; instead, physicians use a comprehensive diagnostic approach that includes a clinical evaluation comprising of: Medical History Review; Physical and Neurological Examination; Cognitive and Functional Testing; Laboratory and Advanced Testing.
Research shows that up to 45% of dementia cases may be delayed or prevented through lifestyle modifications and proper health management. Sint Maarten residents can take the following steps to protect their brain health by improving their physical and cardiovascular Health:
Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week (walking, swimming, dancing, sports); Maintain healthy blood pressure through diet and medication if needed; Manage diabetes and maintain healthy cholesterol levels; Maintain a healthy body weight; Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Pursue lifelong learning—read, take classes, learn new skills; Stay socially connected—maintain relationships with family and friends; Engage in mentally stimulating activities (puzzles, games, creative hobbies); Volunteer and participate in community activities.
Address hearing loss through hearing aids if needed; Correct vision problems (cataract surgery, corrective lenses); Ensure adequate sleep (7–8 hours per night); Reduce exposure to air pollution
Prevent head injuries (use seatbelts, helmets, fall prevention in the home).
Regarding mental health and nutrition: Treat depression and anxiety with professional help
Follow a healthy diet (Mediterranean or MIND diet recommended—emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats); Manage stress through relaxation techniques and social support
“While these measures significantly reduce dementia risk, no single intervention guarantees prevention. A holistic approach to healthy aging is most effective,” said Minister of VSA Hon Claret Connor.
The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor encourages all Sint Maarten residents to: Learn the warning signs and discuss concerns with family members; Schedule a health evaluation with their primary care physician or geriatrician if symptoms are present; Engage in brain-healthy lifestyle practices beginning now; Support family members and caregivers affected by dementia
Reduce stigma by speaking openly about Alzheimer's disease and cognitive health.
"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."
