A Brain Health Awareness Seminar titled “Sensitizing the Role of Community Pharmacists in Dementia Care” was conducted on 21st March 2026 at Amrita School of Pharmacy. Organized as part of the Brain Health Awareness initiative by the Practice School – I Committee, the seminar focused on promoting person-centered care and highlighting the evolving role of community pharmacists in dementia management.
The program began with prayer, followed by welcome note and keynote address by Dr. Sabitha M., Principal, who emphasized the growing burden of dementia and the importance of healthcare professionals in improving patient care.
The scientific sessions commenced with Dr. Divyamol K. Sasidharan, Assistant Professor, Department of Geriatrics, Amrita Hospital, Kochi, who presented on dementia as an emerging epidemic in India, covering its symptoms, diagnosis, and management. This was followed by a session by Dr. Dhanya Chandran, Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Psychology, Amrita Hospital, Kochi. She discussed the psychological issues in dementia care, including emotional and behavioral disturbances, caregiver burden, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach.
The third session was delivered by Dr. Karthik Dhananjayan, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacology, Amrita School of Pharmacy, who elaborated on redefining community pharmacy practice by emphasizing roles such as early detection of cognitive decline, medication therapy management, patient counseling, and caregiver support, along with addressing implementation challenges. The final session was handled by Dr. Gayathri Baburaj, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Amrita School of Pharmacy, who focused on diabetes management in people with dementia, highlighting medication safety, adherence, and de-prescribing strategies.
The seminar also included video presentations and interactive discussions that enhanced student engagement. The event witnessed active participation from the students of B.Pharm 2023 batch, Pharm.D 2022 and 2021 batches, and students of M.Pharm Pharmacy Practice, who gained valuable insights into dementia care and the importance of a patient-centered healthcare model. The program concluded with vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Karthik Dhananjayan, marking the successful completion of a meaningful and impactful academic event.
