India is currently grappling with an escalating problem of dementia, with roughly 8.8 million people experiencing this condition. This accounts for about 7.4% of individuals aged 60 and above. In order to address this pressing issue, MPL, a gaming platform, has launched a campaign called ‘Gamers for Dementia Awareness (GFDA)’. The objective of this initiative is to engage millions of gamers, increase public knowledge about dementia, and provide assistance to those who are at risk or impacted by this incapacitating condition.
This initiative is led by Mobile Premier League (MPL) and supported by Dementia India Alliance, Vridhcare, ElderAid, Kaha Mind and EPWA to bridge the knowledge gap among youth on dementia
India’s expansive gaming population, consisting of a remarkable 421 million gamers, offers an extraordinary chance to leverage the influence of gaming for societal change. Realizing this potential, MPL, with the support of its foundation, has collaborated with the Dementia India Alliance (DIA), Vridhcare, Kaha Mind, EPWA (Egamers and Players Welfare Association), and ElderAid to introduce this endeavour. The debut of this initiative is scheduled for September 21, which coincides with World Alzheimer’s Day.
The campaign aims to close the information gap related to dementia by adopting a comprehensive approach. As a key component of this effort, they have introduced a dedicated website, gameoverdementia.org, which focuses on raising awareness about dementia. This platform serves as a valuable hub of information, providing guidance on recognizing symptoms, diagnosing the condition, and preventing its onset. Additionally, visitors can benefit from free online screenings offered through DIA, thus making it an invaluable resource for individuals seeking knowledge and support. The campaign also incorporates targeted programs to sensitize young people and organizes on-ground events to engage with the elderly population.
In regards to the initiative, Dibyojyoti Mainak, the Managing Trustee of MPL Foundation, expressed his thoughts by stating that the foundation has consistently focused on utilizing the influence of gaming to make a meaningful social impact. The campaign “Gamers for Dementia Awareness” combines their extensive outreach, online assets, active engagement on social media, and on-site assistance to connect with a wide range of people and promote positive transformation. Collaborating with respected partners, they are confident in their ability to bring about significant change in combating the dementia issue in India.
Dr. Radha S Murthy, the President of Dementia India Alliance, underlines the significance of collaborative endeavors, stating that addressing dementia necessitates a comprehensive strategy. Through collaboration with various stakeholders spanning diverse sectors such as gaming and elder care, we can foster a society that is well-informed and empathetic.
In addition to their online initiatives, the campaign aims to engage with the elderly community through in-person events in collaboration with Vridhcare, a non-profit organization with a long-standing commitment to enhancing the well-being of senior citizens. These events will serve as a platform to raise awareness about dementia and offer practical assistance to older individuals. The gaming company will distribute “Get Active” kits, which not only promote an active and healthy lifestyle among the elderly but also provide education on the indications and manifestations of dementia.
Gargi Lakhanpal, the Director of Vridhcare, emphasized the prevalence of dementia among older adults, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most prevalent form in India. In order to bring about significant change, raising awareness is crucial. Initiatives like this serve as an effective means to spread awareness about the challenges and requirements of the elderly community, and being involved in such programs is a privilege.
The elderly population of India today is increasingly vulnerable to various mental health challenges due to factors such as changes in traditional family support structures, and socioeconomic influences. Underscoring the importance of highlighting the importance of mental health among seniors, Aakriti Joanna, Founder and CEO – Kaha Mind, said “Maintaining mental health is paramount for seniors, as it directly influences their cognitive abilities and overall wellbeing. It’s a fundamental aspect of ensuring a high quality of life during the ageing process. We must prioritize mental health among the elderly to support their well-being.”
According to Dr. Vandana Nadig Nair, Chief Evangelist and Co-founder of ElderAid, fostering an active and healthy lifestyle among senior citizens is crucial for their cognitive health. ElderAid, an organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of elderly individuals, emphasizes the significance of promoting engagement in both physical and mental activities. This aligns perfectly with their mission. As part of their efforts, they have initiated the “Gamers for Dementia Awareness” campaign to encourage seniors to stay involved and improve their overall well-being.
As part of the campaign, the MPL Foundation will collaborate with gamers to encourage them to take a five-point pledge to support dementia awareness. The pledge includes a commitment to spend quality time with elders, recognize signs of dementia, assist elders in accessing support, encourage the elderly to stay mentally, physically, and socially active, and introduce elders to online gaming and other cognitively stimulating activities.
EPWA, which stands for online gamers/esports players, aims to raise awareness within the gaming community. Shivani Jha, the Director of EPWA, stated that gaming and esports serve as effective means to bring attention to important issues. By harnessing the passion and influence of gamers, EPWA believes it can make a significant and meaningful impact in promoting awareness and support for dementia. The objective is to utilize the collective enthusiasm of the gaming community to make positive societal changes and ensure that individuals facing dementia never feel alone.
