The Foundation of Goodness recently had the privilege of collaborating with the Lanka Alzheimer’s Foundation (LAF) on a series of meaningful workshops and activities designed to raise awareness about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease across Sri Lanka.
From children to elders, these sessions created opportunities for participants to learn, engage and approach the subject of dementia with empathy and understanding. At our Centre of Excellence in Seenigama, LAF conducted an in-depth awareness programme for students and staff, explaining the early signs of dementia, its impact on families and how communities can offer practical support. Participants engaged with enthusiasm, asking thoughtful questions and appreciating the chance to learn about a condition that is often misunderstood.
The collaboration extended to our 21 Village Heartbeat Empowerment Centres across the island, where LAF conducted workshops in Sinhala and Tamil, tailored to the local communities. These sessions helped young participants grasp the meaning of dementia and gave them practical ways to support elderly family members with kindness and care.
Children were also introduced to the topic through a special storytelling session featuring Malithi’s Diary, a book written to gently explain dementia from a child’s perspective. Through interactive reading and group discussion, young students gained knowledge, developed empathy and awareness that will serve them well as they grow.
Elders also benefitted directly. At our Centre of Excellence, LAF carried out memory screening for 41 senior participants using the Mini-Mental State Examination. Alongside the tests, elders took part in art and music therapy, keeping the atmosphere light-hearted and enjoyable while fostering emotional well-being. Similar activities were conducted at Arachikanda Hospital, where patients with dementia took part in music, dance and storytelling exercises that brought joy and connection.
Through all these initiatives, the Lanka Alzheimer’s Foundation has helped to spark conversations, break stigma and build a culture of understanding around dementia in Sri Lanka. Their commitment to education and awareness is creating a ripple effect, equipping children, adults and elders with knowledge, compassion and the confidence to face this growing challenge together.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Lanka Alzheimer’s Foundation for their tireless efforts and look forward to continuing this impactful collaboration for the betterment of communities across the country.
