The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru, India has teamed up with Dementia India Alliance (DIA) to bolster dementia care and support. 

The two organisations have entered a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 23 January to formalise their collaboration. 

In a post shared on social media platform X, NIMHANS said: “This marks our formal commitment to jointly address the critical issue of dementia in India. We aspire to make meaningful strides in advancing research, support & understanding for those affected by dementia.”  

Under this MoU, the two entities will engage in a range of activities aimed at promoting dementia awareness and inclusivity. 

These will include the establishment of support groups, dissemination of information, various advocacy initiatives, and the organisation of educational programmes and conferences. 

All these efforts are expected to enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. 

Besides, the partnership will also see the two organisations undertaking joint research projects.  

These projects aim to establish evidence-based best practices for the identification, prevention, and management of dementia. 

In addition, NIMHANS and DIA are collaborating with the Department of Health and Family Welfare in Karnataka to develop the Karnataka State Dementia Action Plan.  

This plan is in line with the World Health Organisation's Global Dementia Action Plan. 

Citing a NIMHANS statement, PTI reported: “In partnership with the Union Department of Health and Family Welfare, NIMHANS and DIA were also instrumental in the declaration of ‘Dementia as a public health priority’.”  

Based in Bangalore in the Indian state of Karnataka, NIMHANS is an institute of mental health and neuroscience.  

The institute's integrated approach combines research and training with clinical services to address the needs of society in mental health and neurosciences. 

DIA is a non-profit, family carer-centred organisation, established as part of the Societies Act.  

It focuses on helping family caregivers and also aims to connect and empower governments, individuals, and organisations, to improve the well-being of people with dementia. 

NIMHANS and DIA will also undertake joint research projects to establish best practices for the dementia care.