World Alzheimer’s Day 2026

The Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing (MCON), in collaboration with the Department of Psychiatry, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, observed World Alzheimer’s Day 2026 by organizing an awareness and dementia screening program for the residents of Green Valley Paradise Retirement Home, Manipal.

The program was conducted on 21 September 2026 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., in alignment with the theme, “The Earlier You Know, the More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.”

An interactive dementia awareness session was conducted by Dr. Savitha Prabhu, Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatric Nursing, MCON. The session focused on the causes and risk factors of dementia, early warning signs, the importance of early recognition, and the benefits of timely diagnosis and appropriate professional support. A total of 30 older adults participated in the session.

A dementia screening camp was subsequently organized for the residents of the retirement home. The screening was conducted by a team from the Department of Psychiatry, KMC, Manipal, led by Dr. Soyuz John, Associate Professor. The screening provided an opportunity for the older adults to receive a preliminary assessment and guidance regarding cognitive health.

The program also included interactive recreational activities, games, and dance, facilitated by third-year BSc Nursing students of MCON. These activities encouraged active participation, social interaction, and a positive and engaging environment for the residents.

The program was coordinated by Dr. Savitha Prabhu, Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatric Nursing, MCON, with active collaboration from the Department of Psychiatry, KMC, Manipal, and the student volunteers.

The initiative aimed to promote awareness about dementia, encourage early recognition and timely diagnosis, facilitate access to professional support, and promote healthy aging among older adults. The program also contributed to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3-Good Health and Well-being and SDG 17-Partnerships for the Goals, reflecting the commitment of MCON and KMC to collaborative community engagement and health promotion.