The Lanka Alzheimer’s Foundation (LAF) proudly announces the launch of a pioneering children’s book aimed at fostering awareness, empathy, and understanding about individuals living with dementia. Designed for children aged eight and above, this beautifully illustrated book offers a heartfelt exploration of Dementia, helping young readers navigate the changes they may witness in loved ones while promoting meaningful family conversations.
Told through the eyes of a young child working on a school diary project, the story follows their evolving relationship with a beloved grandparent who begins to experience memory loss and other signs of dementia. As the child observes changes in their grandmother’s behavior, she embarks on a journey of discovery with the support of their parents, gradually learning to understand the condition with patience, love, and treasured memories. The book provides simple yet powerful explanations of dementia-related symptoms such as forgetfulness, confusion, and personality shifts. It highlights the importance of kindness, resilience, and cherishing shared moments, while also celebrating past memories and the invaluable role grandparents play in a child’s life. Through engaging storytelling, the book encourages families to discuss dementia in an age-appropriate and supportive manner. To ensure accessibility, it will be available in Sinhala, Tamil, and English.
Following the launch, LAF will roll out a series of nationwide awareness programs, including book readings, school library distributions, and community discussions. Managed over a three-month period, these initiatives will leverage LAF’s strong community networks to ensure the book reaches children and families across Sri Lanka.
LAF also launched their new website at the media conference. This will facilitate easy access to information on both Alzheimer’s and dementia as well as the services provided by the foundation. A digital version of the book will also be available for download on the platform.
The books will also be available for purchase at a nominal amount from the LAF’s Information and Resource Centre in Maradana and from popular bookshops island-wide
The Lanka Alzheimer’s Foundation, Sri Lanka’s first non-statutory organization dedicated to dementia awareness and advocacy, remains committed to improving the lives of individuals with Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and their families. Registered under the Ministry of Social Services, LAF provides free education, care, and support services while actively working to eliminate stigma and misinformation surrounding dementia. The foundation’s key services include public awareness campaigns, memory screenings, an activity center for individuals with dementia, caregiver support groups, and counselling services. LAF also operates a dedicated dementia helpline, publishes a quarterly newsletter, and distributes identification bracelets to enhance the safety of individuals with dementia.
This initiative marks an important step toward creating a society that embraces an understanding of those affected by dementia. By educating younger generations, LAF hopes to cultivate a culture of empathy and support, ensuring that persons with dementia and their families feel heard, understood, and empowered.
Photo Caption: LAF Children’s Book on Dementia – published in Sinhala, Tamil & English
