KUALA LUMPUR: Satilah Abdullah, the 80-year-old mother and former manager of singer-actress Ning Baizura, is suffering from dementia but in good spirits.
Ning, 47, said in an interview with Berita Harian Online yesterday that Satilah's memory had declined by 30 per cent and her family found this out last year.
"At first I thought mum had Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), but she kept saying that it was Monday every day," said Ning.
Last month, following a medical check-up, doctors confirmed that Satilah was suffering from dementia.
"Mum could not accept this at first, but when relatives who visited us began to notice how severe her memory loss was, I decided that she had to see the doctors."
Ning thanked her parents-in-law for persuading Satilah to see the doctors.
"Since the diagnosis, I have decided to stand by her side as much as I can. Mum needs me more than ever now, for my presence gives her spirit a lift."
Ning will be spending Hari Raya with her husband Omar Dalton, their 10-year-old son Ryan and Satilah in Langkawi. They will be driving there instead of taking a flight due to her mother's condition.
"Mum loves Langkawi as it is scenic with lots of lush greenery," said Ning.
Ning will soon appear in the concert Suara Raya 2023 held at Zepp KL in Jalan Hang Tuah on May 14. The concert will also feature singers Aina Abdul and Iman Troye.
It is organised by Amazing Creative Group to raise awareness of the global scourge of human trafficking.