Haenam-gun, Dementia Screening Tests for All Residents Aged 60 and Over

Comprehensive Survey by 2025, Strengthening Dementia Prevention, Early Detection, and Management Services

Haenam-gun, Jeollanam-do, is attracting attention by launching a comprehensive dementia management program aimed at screening all residents aged 60 and over in the county for dementia.

According to the county on the 17th, a full-scale dementia screening is being promoted for residents aged 60 and above.

As of the end of March this year, there are 27,931 residents aged 60 and over in Haenam-gun. The county plans to conduct dementia screening for about 10,000 people annually and complete the screening for all eligible individuals by 2025.

Haenam County is undertaking comprehensive dementia management with the goal of providing dementia screening tests to all residents aged 60 and over.
[Photo by Haenam County]

Accordingly, dementia screening was conducted for about 10,000 people last year, and so far this year, about 4,000 people have undergone dementia screening.

The county emphasizes that early detection and continuous management are the most important tasks in dementia care, urging residents to discard negative perceptions about dementia and actively participate in dementia screening.

Residents aged 60 and over can receive free dementia screening throughout the year. Thirty-one health and medical institutions, including public health centers, operate permanent screening sites. Those who show cognitive decline or suspicion based on the test results can receive free diagnostic tests and consultations by neurologists, as well as various information and services through the Dementia Safety Center.

In particular, considering the inconvenience of visiting health institutions for dementia screening, the county is expanding outreach dementia screening services.

Screenings are conducted by visiting 14 town and township senior centers, elderly facilities, welfare facilities, and local shops. Additionally, customized dementia screening is provided to residents who find it difficult to visit public health centers by linking with various programs operated by the health centers.

A county official stated, “Please do not fear dementia screening but regard it as a part of life-cycle health checkups and voluntarily participate in dementia screening once you turn 60. Dementia is a preventable and treatable disease, and if early screening and appropriate medication are combined, there is no problem in enjoying a healthy old age.”

The county plans to continuously provide integrated dementia management services to reduce the burden of dementia and create a happy senior life in Haenam.

Residents who wish to undergo early dementia screening can contact the Haenam-gun Dementia Safety Center for detailed information.