WILLEMSTAD – Young people who combine school and their personal development with caring for relatives suffering from Alzheimer's disease are facing a largely unseen emotional burden in Curaçao, according to concerns highlighted during the third Ala Hubenil youth congress.
The congress was organized by Stichting Alzheimer Curaçao through its youth group Ala Hubenil and held at Sentro pa Desaroyo Integral Dr. Israel Leito.
This year's theme, “Bo Mente, Bo Futuro – Kuide Awó,” or “Your Mind, Your Future – Take Care Now,” focused on encouraging young people to begin taking care of their physical and mental health before problems develop later in life.
One of the issues receiving particular attention was the situation of young caregivers.
Some Curaçao youths are simultaneously attending school, maintaining friendships and working on their own personal development while helping care for a parent, grandparent or another relative living with Alzheimer's disease.
Although caring for a relative can be an expression of love and commitment, the additional responsibilities can also lead to fatigue, stress and significant emotional pressure.
The congress emphasized that young caregivers themselves need support and should not neglect their own physical and mental well-being while caring for someone else.
The broader program addressed several health issues affecting young people, including Alzheimer's disease, physical activity, HIV prevention, alcohol and drug use, mental health and self-care.
Organizers stressed that prevention should begin at a young age rather than only when health problems become apparent.
The approach is particularly relevant for Alzheimer's because the effects of the disease extend beyond the patient. When a parent or grandparent develops dementia, responsibilities within a household can shift and younger family members may become involved in everyday caregiving.
Those responsibilities can sometimes remain largely invisible outside the family.
A student may continue attending classes and participating in normal activities while simultaneously helping supervise, assist or care for a relative at home.
Ala Hubenil wants greater awareness among young people about recognizing emotional pressure and understanding when they themselves need assistance.
The third edition of the congress reflects a broader effort by Stichting Alzheimer Curaçao to involve younger generations in discussions about dementia while also recognizing that Alzheimer's can directly affect their lives long before they themselves reach old age.