Mangaluru, September 28, 2026: Forgetting where you kept your keys is normal. Forgetting what keys are for may not be. That distinction was at the heart of a dementia awareness and community health program conducted by Nitte (Deemed to be University) at Manila village in Bantwal taluk, where more than 90 residents aged 40 and above learned to recognize early signs of dementia and understand the importance of timely intervention.
The program was organized by the Department of Public Health, Nitte Institute of Allied Health Sciences (NIAHS), Nitte University, in association with Manila Grama Panchayat, as part of the University’s community outreach initiatives. Held to mark World Alzheimer’s Month 2026, it reflected this year’s theme, “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.”
An estimated 8.8 million Indians aged 60 and above live with dementia, with many cases remaining undiagnosed as symptoms are often dismissed as part of ageing. The 2024 Lancet Commission reported that nearly half of dementia cases could potentially be prevented or delayed by addressing 14 modifiable risk factors.
Dr. Sherley D’Almeida, public health consultant and Nitte alumna, led the awareness session. She explained how dementia differs from occasional forgetfulness, the warning signs families should recognize and the importance of early intervention. “Dementia is not simply about forgetting. Recognizing changes early can help families seek appropriate care and support,” she said.
Residents were encouraged to watch for signs such as repeatedly asking the same questions, getting lost in familiar places, struggling with routine tasks and unexplained changes in mood or personality. The session also highlighted measures that can help reduce dementia risk, including controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, remaining physically active, avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol and staying mentally and socially active. Memory games and everyday examples made the discussion relatable to participants.
ASHA workers attending the program said the knowledge would help them identify possible warning signs during their regular interactions with rural families and guide them towards appropriate care.
Nitte University’s outreach extended beyond awareness to preventive screening and healthcare access. MPH students from the Department of Public Health screened around 70 residents, with about 20 referred for further evaluation. Doctors from the Department of Public Health Dentistry, A B Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Nitte University, also provided free dental care.
The initiative was coordinated by Dr. Ashith PC, public health specialist and
alumnus of Nitte University’s Department of Public Health, in collaboration with the Grama Panchayat and local community. Residents were also informed about the KSHEMA health card, which facilitates affordable treatment at participating Nitte healthcare facilities.
Swami Shri Mohandas Paramahamsa Swamiji of Shridhama, Manila, supported the initiative, while Panchayat Administrator Dileep facilitated the venue and local arrangements.
By combining health education, student involvement, screening, referral and access to care, the program reflected Nitte University’s continuing commitment to taking preventive healthcare and public health awareness beyond its campuses and into the communities it serves.
