In Armenia, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias is steadily increasing, impacting a growing number of individuals and their families. Alzheimer’s Care Armenia (ACA) has responded to this escalating concern by introducing the BrainHealth Armenia Project. Supported by the Hovnanian Family Foundation, the Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative, and private donors, this project aims to address the pressing issue of dementia in the country.
The BrainHealth Project is Armenia’s first-ever in-home cognitive healthcare program, providing tailored services for individuals dealing with memory loss.
Now, the ACA is expanding its services throughout the country to enhance the lives of people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Led by a team of ten healthcare professionals, including Dr. Gevorg Pashikyan, Medical Director, and Dr. Sona Mkhitaryan, Director of Clinical Operations, ACA aims to offer comprehensive care for those impacted by these conditions.
In the past year, ACA’s Brain Health Armenia Project, conducted over 4,000 early detection memory screenings across the country. Collaborating with the Armenian EyeCare Project, they identified cognitive impairment in approximately 34.75% of those screened.
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According to the Founder and Chairman of Alzheimer’s Care Armenia, Dr. Jane Mahakian, “There is a definite need to build programs and services for people with dementia and to strengthen the readiness of the country to better meet their care needs.”
Dr. Mahakian is a pioneer in bringing elder care programs and increasing awareness of Alzheimer’s disease in Armenia. She is the author of “I Hear You,” a practical guide for people caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease that promotes purposeful living and preserves independence.
With this expansion, ACA intends to establish partnerships with organizations and institutions in Armenia that focus on elderly care.
Angela Hassassian
