Cases of dementia in Sri Lanka estimated to increase

The risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia increases with age. As Sri Lanka has one of the fastest ageing populations in the region it is estimated that by the year 2050 there will be almost half a million people living with dementia in Sri Lanka. Evidence is also emerging that the COVID-19 may increase the risk of developing dementia later in life, Lanka Alzheimer’s Foudation (LAF) said in a news release last week.

“September is marked globally as World Alzheimer’s Month and September 21 as World Alzheimer’s Day. LAF, a member of the global association, Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), is focused on post-diagnosis support for those living with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias and to enhance the wellbeing of their family carers” it said.

“LAF’s is once again organizing a virtual walk from September 1 to 21 to encourage physical and mental exercise, one of the key factors in helping to delay or prevent Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, while educating participants about the disease. Details are available on their website https://alzlanka.org/together-we-can-do-so-much/.”

The release explained that service provided by LAF, which is run mainly by volunteers with donations from well-wishers, includes: raising awareness; providing education on risk reduction; memory screening and assessment; an activity centre;, care giver support groups; a help line; identification bracelets; befriending and counselling and much more to help persons living with dementia and their care givers.

“Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s” – armed with the power of knowledge, all of us together with LAF can do so much to spot the warning signs of dementia, ensure timely diagnosis, and provide post-diagnosis support for people living with dementia. Contrary to common belief Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of ageing. It is a disease, for which there currently is no cure but there are measures to reduce chances of developing dementia and slowing the onset or progression of the disease, LAF said.