Dr. Hamboyan presents talk about Alzheimer’s Disease and DementiaBy Sarin Poladian-Apigian

On April 7, 2024, the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Toronto ARS Toronto Roubina Chapter’s educational committee organized an enlightening presentation on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia presented by Dr. Herag Hamboyan. Among the attendees were ARS Canada members and Roubina chapter representative Maral Missirian.

Sarin Poladian-Apigian, the event’s master of ceremonies, commenced the event with opening remarks, highlighting ARS’s commitment to humanitarian aid services and the preservation of Armenian heritage and culture. In addition to many endeavours, ARS is dedicated to nurturing educational initiatives within our community to raise awareness about health-related topics. She then introduced the highly esteemed Dr. Herag Hamboyan, a physician based in Oakville and the Medical Director of 20 senior homes across Toronto and surrounding areas. With vast expertise in complex and chronic conditions affecting seniors, including dementia, heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory diseases, Dr. Hamboyan provided invaluable insights into Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Throughout his lecture, Dr. Hamboyan addressed fundamental questions surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, clarifying their definitions and distinctions. He explored common inquiries about these conditions, emphasizing the progressive nature of dementia and its significant impact on daily life, which is not merely a regular aspect of ageing.

Despite the absence of a cure for dementia, Dr. Hamboyan shared valuable strategies for risk reduction, focusing on lifestyle factors such as exercise, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation. Moreover, Dr. Hamboyan outlined the importance of caregiver education and support, offering empathy and understanding in navigating the complexities of dementia care. His dedication to Alzheimer’s advocacy extended beyond the lecture, as he shared his involvement as a member of the board of Alzheimer’s Care Armenia, an organization raising awareness and supporting dementia patients in Armenia. Through initiatives such as screening programs and memory cafes, the organization aims to enhance dementia care and promote a better quality of life for affected individuals in Armenia. Following the presentation, attendees engaged in a highly interactive question-and-answer session with Dr. Hamboyan.

Ani Hotoyan-Joly, chair of the Roubina chapter executive, delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to Dr. Hamboyan for his informative lecture and highlighting the widespread impact of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia on both diagnosed individuals, their families and caregivers.

As a token of appreciation, Ani Hotoyan-Joly and Dr. Ani Jackie Janbazian-Hasserjian , Chair of the Educational Committee, presented Dr. Hamboyan with the book There is Only The Earth: Images from Armenian Diaspora by Scout Tufankjian.

The event concluded with a warm reception, allowing attendees to connect with each other and reflect on the insights shared. ֎

*The article published in our May 2024 issue.