Context and Project Goal

Armenia is a post-Soviet, low-and middle-income country (LMIC) with a growing elderly population. Alzheimer's disease and other dementias are increasing in Armenia and are expected to grow exponentially in the coming decades. However, there is widespread lack of knowledge about memory screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Additionally, there is no standard protocol for cognitive screening among primary health care physicians in the country, often due to a lack of training and the misconception that memory loss is a normal part of aging. In the attempt to address the developing burden of cognitive impairment (CI) and improve early detection memory screening in the country, this project developed a mobile memory screening program, trained primary care professionals and caregivers in early detection screening, and held workshops for caregivers.

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Project Description

The Brain Health Armenia Project was the first nationwide memory screening and Alzheimer's disease training program in Armenia. Collaborating with the Armenian Eye Care Project Mobile Hospital, the initiative utilized a mobile unit to administer the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Test (MoCA) across various urban and rural regions. The project focused on early detection of cognitive impairment, providing follow-up care and educational materials for patients and caregivers. Additionally, it offered certified training for healthcare professionals and educational workshops for families affected by dementia, conducted in polyclinics, hospitals, universities, and healthcare organizations throughout the country.