Memory Screening Camps:
Hope Ek A.S.H.A. currently offers assessments for the elderly over 60 years of age to identify cases of MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) and provide advice on treatment, therapy, and brain stimulation activities that can significantly slow memory decline at the proper time. Our mission is to empower seniors and their families with the knowledge, guidance, and resources needed to manage cognitive health effectively.
MCI is a subtle but noticeable decline in cognitive abilities that is often considered a precursor to more severe conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in the quality of life for seniors. Our assessments are tailored to identify signs of MCI, enabling us to initiate appropriate measures at the right time.
Research has consistently shown that Alzheimer's disease typically develops about 10 to 15 years after the initial diagnosis of MCI. This knowledge underscores the importance of early identification and intervention in order to delay the progression of cognitive decline. By identifying cases of MCI and offering guidance on treatment, therapy, and brain stimulation activities, we aim to empower seniors to proactively manage their cognitive health. In doing so, we not only enhance their quality of life but also alleviate the emotional and financial burden placed on their families.
Our memory screening initiative commenced in late 2019, and since then, we have conducted a total of 1560 screenings. Among these screenings, we have detected 167 cases of Alzheimer's disease. The journey doesn't end with diagnosis; we provide continuous support through monthly follow-ups and memory screening. This ongoing commitment ensures that seniors and their families have access to the care and resources they need to navigate the challenges associated with cognitive decline.
Caregivers’ Training:
Caregivers, whether they are family members or trained professionals, play a pivotal role in the life of Alzheimer's disease patients. They are the lifeline that provides essential support, care, and compassion to both the patient and their family. The Alzheimer's journey is marked by challenges, and caregivers serve as beacons of hope and stability in this difficult terrain.
We strive to bridge the gap between demand and supply for professional caregivers. In particular, we are committed to training young individuals, including those from underprivileged backgrounds, in the specialized fields of "ELDER CARE" and "ALZHEIMER CARE." These training programs not only equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to care for Alzheimer's patients but also open up employment opportunities in a field where skilled professionals are in high demand. This addresses the need for quality caregivers and empowers these young individuals with stable and fulfilling careers.
We also focus on training domestic helpers to become "Alzheimer Carers." This training empowers them with the necessary skills and knowledge to support Alzheimer's patients, offering family caregivers much-needed relief while ensuring that the patient's well-being is still prioritized.
Caregivers’ Support Group-Online and Offline:
Compassion is a cornerstone of caregiving for Alzheimer's patients. These individuals often face profound cognitive and emotional changes, and it takes a special kind of empathy to provide the care and understanding they require. Caregivers should not only tend to the practical needs of the patient but also offer emotional support to both the patient and their family. This compassionate approach is a source of solace and strength in a challenging situation.
In recognition of the critical role caregivers play, our organization places a strong emphasis on their well-being. We facilitate regular caregiver meetings, social interactions, and seminars to provide a platform for caregivers to share experiences, learn from one another, and receive the emotional support they need.
We also extend these services online through a "Caregivers’ Forum." This serves as a digital haven for caregivers who are often in need of assistance, information, and emotional support. Alzheimer's caregiving can be an emotionally and mentally demanding journey, and having a platform like this can be a lifeline for those navigating these challenges. The group is a dynamic space where members can share their experiences, ask questions, and seek guidance on various aspects of caring for Alzheimer's patients.
The presence of panel doctors associated with HEA ensures that medical queries and concerns can be addressed promptly and accurately, offering peace of mind to caregivers. The participation of willing senior citizens in this group not only brings a different perspective but also serves as a testament to the intergenerational support system we aim to foster. The group operates through the phone number: 98100-30302.
Advocacy:
Hope Ek A.S.H.A. recognizes the importance of advocating for Persons with Dementia. As such, we organize a number of awareness projects in the form of workshops and social media campaigns to moblize action towards this cause. Although changes to policies concerning Persons with Dementia are the primary way to bring about large-scale changes, we try to do our part by highlighting the importance lawyers play in the golden years.
Community Action Plan
Hope Ek A.S.H.A. recognizes the essentiality of taking all stakeholders along in our journey to makes the process of finding affordable and quality Dementia care as fruitful and seamless as possible. As such, we prioritise efforts that involve the entire community, allowing others to contribute while simultaneously raising awareness about a topic as shrouded by myths as Dementia.
- • DFCR- The DFCR is a “Dementia Friendly Community Fund” set up by Hope Ek A.S.H.A. Through this endeavour, we seek to increase the amount of resources that can be mobilized as we establish a Dementia-friendly community. Such a community would be a utopia for Dementia patients and their spouses, providing all amenities required and a social space for them to have fruitful interactions.
- • Raising Awareness- Without sufficient awareness about Alzheimer’s, there’s no scope for improvement on a larger scale. As such, Hope Ek A.S.H.A. organizes workshops and events aimed at generating awareness amongst the masses. We also undertake numerous social media campaigns for this purpose. Our plan is to increase the scope of our projects, and soon find ways of spreading awareness about Dementia in almost every city in India.
- • Daycare Projects- Observing the success of the A.S.H.A. Daycare Facility, we feel that there is a need for more such facilities to be set up across the metropolitan to ease caregivers of PwDs. To establish more such facilities, we hope to recruit volunteers/organizations who can provide suitable locations for stipulated time periods, we well as volunteers to assist in the functioning of these facilities.
- • Dementia Care Homes- Setting up affordable institutions for Dementia care is a top priority for our organization. The success of the A.S.H.A. facility has further underscored this need, and we are actively working towards the goal of establishing more care homes
- • Memory Screening Camps - Hope Ek A.S.H.A. currently hosts memory screening camps to facilitate early detection of Dementia. We hope to continue this endeavor, while engaging the community more by allying ourselves with PSUs to enable them to screen their older employees.
Mass Awareness:
Raising awareness about dementia is not just our goal; it's our unwavering commitment. We believe that the lack of awareness about dementia is a challenge that extends far beyond individual cases. It affects entire communities and, indeed, our society at large. Our primary mission is to ensure that no one has to confront the daunting journey of dementia in isolation.
We recognize that discussing dementia can be a sensitive and uncomfortable subject for many. It's not uncommon for individuals to grapple with feelings of confusion, fear, and uncertainty when faced with this condition. That's why we extend a heartfelt and urgent plea to those who may be hesitant to open up about their experiences. We're here to emphasize that you are not alone, and your voice deserves to be heard.
The impact of our work is profoundly rewarding. As a closely-knit community, we take great pride in hearing from the wonderful individuals who have benefited from our support. They express gratitude for the safe and compassionate space we provide, and they share how our interactions have brought newfound positivity into their lives. Dementia is, without a doubt, one of the most significant health and social care challenges of our time, and we are resolutely committed to addressing it.
We firmly believe that by fostering open conversations, raising awareness, and offering support, we can transform the way society perceives and manages dementia. If you or someone you know wishes to discuss dementia, we implore you to reach out to us. Our 24/7 helpline, available at +91 9810306724, is ready to offer the support, information, and guidance you need. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by dementia and provide hope and reassurance in the face of this challenging condition.
