World Alzheimer's Month: Breaking the Silence and Reducing Misconceptions

Strategic Insights -

This September, the Lanka Alzheimer's Foundation (LAF) joins the global community in commemorating World Alzheimer's Month, led by Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) to raise awareness and challenge stigma around dementia. Research highlights the importance of healthy lifestyle choices in delaying or preventing dementia, yet 65% of healthcare professionals and 80% of the public believe dementia is a normal part of aging. As part of its mission, LAF is organizing two community events this September to promote physical and mental well-being, including the Run to Remember and Memory Walk 2024.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Lanka Alzheimer's Foundation (LAF) is commemorating World Alzheimer's Month with two community events, Run to Remember and Memory Walk 2024, to raise awareness and challenge stigma around dementia.
  • Research suggests that almost half of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented through healthy lifestyle choices.
  • Despite this, 65% of healthcare professionals and 80% of the public still believe dementia is a normal part of aging, perpetuating misconceptions.
  • The events are made possible by the generosity of sponsors, including ADZ Insurance Brokers (Private) Limited, Janashakthi Insurance, and others.
  • The Lanka Alzheimer's Foundation provides free education, care, and support services while working to eliminate stigma and misinformation surrounding dementia.
  • The organization is registered under the Ministry of Social Services in Sri Lanka, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

Statistics:

  • 55 million people worldwide are affected by Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
  • 65% of healthcare professionals believe that dementia is a normal part of aging.
  • 80% of the public still believe that dementia is a normal part of aging, perpetuating misconceptions.
  • 50% of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented through healthy lifestyle choices research suggests.

Sources:

  • Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI): The international campaign to raise awareness and challenge stigma around dementia.
  • Lanka Alzheimer's Foundation (LAF): Sri Lanka's first non-statutory organization dedicated to dementia awareness and advocacy.
  • Ministry of Social Services, Sri Lanka: The government department that regulates and supports non-statutory organizations like LAF.