Dementia Care in India: Past, Present, and Future

Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that slowly affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Across the world, millions of older adults live with dementia — and India is no exception. As our population ages, the number of people affected is rising sharply, making dementia one of the country's most pressing public health concerns.

Understanding how India has responded to this challenge — from the early days of limited awareness to the current gaps and emerging reforms — is essential if we want to build a future that protects both dignity and quality of life for those living with dementia.

The Past: Early Recognition and Challenges

For a long time, dementia in India went largely unrecognized. Memory loss, confusion, and behavioral changes were often seen as a natural part of growing old, or interpreted through spiritual and cultural beliefs. The turning point came in 2010, when the Dementia India Report by the Alzheimer's and Related Disorders Society of India (ARDSI) revealed that about 3.7 million Indians were living with dementia — a number expected to double by 2030.

The report was a wake-up call. It highlighted not only the growing scale of the problem but also the limited awareness, scarce diagnostic facilities, and the overwhelming pressure placed on families who were caring for loved ones without professional support or respite.

The Present: Growing Prevalence and Systemic Gaps

Today, the situation is both clearer and more urgent. Recent estimates suggest that nearly 8.8 million Indians over the age of 60 live with dementia — a prevalence rate of about 7.4%. Yet, the country's care systems have not kept pace with the rising numbers.

India currently has fewer than 10 day-care centers, six residential facilities, and around a hundred memory clinics for a population of over a billion. Most people with dementia are still cared for at home, often by family members with little guidance or training.

Despite the progress made by NGOs, hospitals, and some private initiatives, there remains no comprehensive national dementia policy to coordinate efforts or set quality standards. This policy gap leaves millions without access to affordable diagnosis, medical management, or community-based care.

The Future: Building Comprehensive and Inclusive Care

To address the growing dementia crisis, India needs a holistic and coordinated response that combines public health policy, infrastructure, community awareness, and innovation.

1. Policy and Governance A national dementia strategy is critical. It would provide a framework for prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care, while also supporting caregivers through training and financial aid.

2. Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure We need more geriatric specialists, memory clinics, and dementia-friendly hospitals. Primary healthcare workers should be trained to identify early signs of cognitive decline and refer patients for timely support.

3. Community Awareness and Education Public awareness campaigns can reduce stigma and encourage families to seek help sooner. Empowering communities through workshops and social programs can also build empathy and practical knowledge.

4. Technology and Innovation Digital tools — from telemedicine and cognitive therapy apps to home monitoring systems — can extend the reach of dementia care into rural and underserved regions.

Organizations like ElderWorld are helping bridge the gap by offering comprehensive services that include caregiving, nursing, companion programs, social engagement, and personalized care plans. Their approach shows how compassion and professionalism can coexist in real-world eldercare.

Conclusion

The story of dementia care in India reflects a journey — from misunderstanding and silence to recognition and action. We are now at a stage where awareness is growing, but systems remain fragmented.

By learning from past limitations, addressing present challenges, and preparing thoughtfully for the future, India can build a model of dementia care rooted in dignity, accessibility, and empathy. Because behind every diagnosis is not just a patient, but a person — someone's parent, grandparent, or loved one — deserving of comfort, respect, and connection.

References

• Alzheimer's and Related Disorders Society of India. (2010). The Dementia India Report: Prevalence, Impact, Costs and Services for Dementia. Retrieved from https://www.alzheimer.org.in/
• Lee, J., et al. (2023). New estimate of dementia prevalence indicates magnitude of India's challenge. Fogarty International Center.
• Raina, S. K., et al. (2021). Prevalence of dementia in India: National and state estimates. Alzheimer's & Dementia.