A groundbreaking dementia awareness event, Dementia Café, was held on Sunday, September 26, 2021. The initiative was spearheaded by Senior Neurologist Dr. Sikander Advani, bringing together expertise and experience to support dementia awareness and care.
Distinguished Speakers and Expertise:
Wing Commander D. P. Sabharwal (Bengaluru) - Featured as the special experience mentor, sharing his 15-year journey of caring for his wife with dementia, documented through 48 books and webinars
- Dr. Sikander Advani - Senior Neurologist
- Dr. Anand Kakani - Neurosurgeon
- Dr. Pawan Agarwal - Cardiologist
The virtual format of the Dementia Café provided a safe, inclusive environment for sharing experiences and knowledge, following the successful model of memory cafés that originated in the Netherlands in 1997. Such virtual platforms have proven particularly valuable in creating supportive communities and reducing isolation for both caregivers and those affected by dementia.
Key Benefits of the Initiative:
- Created a supportive virtual community
- Shared practical caregiving experiences
- Provided expert medical insights
- Offered resource guidance for families
- Enhanced understanding of dementia care challenges.
This initiative stands as a model for future virtual awareness programs, demonstrating the power of combining medical expertise with lived experiences in supporting the dementia care community.