Dementia in India: A Call for Awareness, Action and Support

While specific dates for a "Dementia Action Week" in India for May 2025 are not centrally designated, the critical need for heightened public awareness surrounding dementia remains a year-round urgency. Globally, initiatives like the UK's Dementia Action Week (May 19-25, 2025) and World Alzheimer's Month in September serve as vital reminders of the growing challenge posed by dementia and the importance of early diagnosis, support, and care. India, with its rapidly aging population, faces a significant and escalating number of dementia cases, making public understanding and accessible support systems more crucial than ever.

 

Dementia, an umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological disorders, profoundly impacts memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form. The stigma and lack of awareness surrounding dementia often lead to delayed diagnosis, inadequate care, and immense emotional and financial strain on families and caregivers.

 

Why Public Awareness is Crucial:

 

Early Diagnosis: Recognizing the early signs of dementia can lead to timely medical intervention, which can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Reducing Stigma: Open conversations about dementia can help dispel myths and reduce the stigma associated with the condition, encouraging individuals and families to seek help without shame.
Support for Caregivers: Caregivers for individuals with dementia often face immense challenges. Increased awareness can lead to better support networks and resources for them.
Building Dementia-Friendly Communities: A knowledgeable public can contribute to creating more understanding, inclusive, and supportive environments for people living with dementia and their families.
Policy and Research: Greater public awareness can drive demand for better public health policies, increased funding for research, and improved healthcare infrastructure for dementia care.

 

Key Organizations and Helplines in India:

 

Several dedicated organizations in India are working tirelessly to provide support, raise awareness, and advocate for those affected by dementia. Here are some key resources:

 

1.   Alzheimer's and Related Disorders Society of India (ARDSI): ARDSI is the largest national organization dedicated to dementia care, support, research, and advocacy. They have chapters across India offering services like memory clinics, caregiver support groups, training programs, and helplines.

Website: https://ardsi.org/
National Office Contact: +91 4885 223 801
Email: ardsinationaloffice@gmail.com
Helpline Numbers (vary by chapter, check national website or local chapter details):

National Coordinator: +91 9846198473
General Manager: +91 9072737007

ARDSI has numerous local chapters; contact details for specific cities can be found on their website.

 

2.   Dementia India Alliance (DIA): DIA is a non-profit organization focused on supporting family caregivers and fostering a dementia-inclusive society through awareness, training, and support services.

Website: https://dementia-india.org/
National Dementia Support Line: 8585 990 990 (Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; services in English, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Telugu)
Programs: DIA DemClinic (online memory clinic), support groups, training programs.

 

3.   HelpAge India: While working broadly for the cause and care of the elderly, HelpAge India also provides resources and support relevant to dementia.

Website: https: https://www.helpageindia.org/
Toll-Free Helpline: 1800-180-1253

 

4.   Dignity Foundation: This organization works for senior citizens' welfare and offers services including dementia day care in some cities.

Website:  https://www.dignityfoundation.com/
Senior Citizen Helpline: 1800 267 8780

 

5.   Tele-MANAS (Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States): A 24/7 national toll-free mental health helpline that can also be used for dementia-related queries and support.

Helpline Numbers: 14416 or 1-800-91-4416

 

The Way Forward:

 

Addressing the dementia challenge in India requires a multi-pronged approach involving government initiatives, healthcare professionals, community participation, and active civil society organizations. While dedicated awareness weeks provide a focused platform, the conversation and action around dementia must be sustained throughout the year.

 

Individuals are encouraged to:

Educate themselves about the signs and symptoms of dementia.
Reach out to these organizations for information and support if they or someone they know is affected.
Promote open discussions about dementia within their communities to help break the silence and stigma.
Support the efforts of organizations working in the field of dementia care.

 

By working together, India can strive towards a future where individuals with dementia live with dignity, receive appropriate care, and are supported by a compassionate and informed society.