Mega Dementia Screening Camp for Senior Citizens – 2026

The Department of Geriatrics, BLDE (Deemed to be University), Shri B. M. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Vijayapura, in collaboration with the Department for the Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens, Vijayapura District, and the District Health Office, Government of Karnataka, organized a Mega Dementia Screening Camp for Senior Citizens on 13th October 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The programme was conducted under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana and State Action Plan for Senior Citizens, with the objective of promoting early identification of dementia and improving awareness about cognitive health among older adults.

Dr. Anand P. Ambali, Head of the Department of Geriatrics, welcomed the gathering and highlighted the increasing prevalence of dementia among senior citizens, noting that many cases remain undiagnosed due to a lack of awareness among family members. He explained that the Department of Geriatrics established its Dementia Clinic in 2014 and has been a pioneer in dementia screening among older adults. He also emphasized the emotional challenges faced by caregivers, who often experience considerable stress while supporting individuals living with dementia, particularly due to prolonged illness and behavioural changes.

Shri K. K. Chavan, Retired Deputy Director, Department of Women and Child Welfare, Vijayapura, inaugurated the camp. In his address, he stressed the importance of mental well-being and an active physical lifestyle in helping senior citizens maintain cognitive health and reduce the risk of dementia. Dr. Tejaswini Vallabha, Principal and Dean, Faculty of Medicine, presided over the programme. She highlighted that increased longevity brings with it the responsibility of taking care of one’s health and undergoing regular screening for conditions such as dementia, hypertension, and diabetes. She appreciated the services provided by the Department of Geriatrics and acknowledged the contribution of family members, emphasizing the value of their love and affection in caring for older adults.

Shri Jagadeesh K., District Disabled Welfare Officer, Department for the Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens, Vijayapura, stated that the Government of India’s initiative had been successfully implemented at a medical college hospital in Vijayapura district. He also informed the gathering that a similar programme would be conducted in Indi Taluka on 15th October 2026, highlighting the government’s commitment to the overall welfare of senior citizens. Dr. S. N. Bentoor, Medical Superintendent, spoke about the hospital’s initiatives to train nursing professionals in dementia care and informed that training programmes for family caregivers would also be introduced in the near future.

A total of 100 senior citizens attended the camp and underwent comprehensive geriatric assessment and dementia screening tests. The screening activities were conducted by Dr. Manjunath Masali, Dr. Virupaxppa Biradar, Dr. Mohammad Abrar Ul Huq, Dr. Gouthami S. G., Mr. Nabisab Jainapur, and Dr. Anand P. Ambali. The occasion was also graced by Shri S. P. Biradar and Shri S. I. Ingaleshwar, representing the Retired Government Employee Association, Vijayapura District, and Navaraspur, respectively. Dr. Shrushti Udupi, Postgraduate Student, served as the Master of Ceremony.

The mega screening camp served as an important initiative to promote awareness, encourage early detection, and strengthen support for senior citizens living with dementia. It also reinforced the importance of coordinated efforts among healthcare professionals, government departments, and families in ensuring accessible, compassionate, and comprehensive geriatric care.