Roma Ankolekar
Dementia Insight was started in remembrance of Roma’s grandmother to spread awareness by publishing monthly blogs on caregiver tips, scientific research, and community support. She hosted an event on World Alzheimer’s Day 2019 where speakers delivered impactful presentations on the pathology of dementia, resources available for the elderly in the area, and services offered by memory care facilities. Hosting this even opened her eyes to the power of being a changemaker and allowed her the opportunity to aid the Age-Friendly Cupertino Taskforce senior care efforts. A proposal she helped present resulted in the council voting in favor of adding below-market-rate senior housing and memory care centers to the project. Roma and team are currently planning for a 2021 Memory Disease and Care Series to progress Cupertino towards being a more age-friendly and dementia-friendly city.
NSHSS Mental Health Awareness Scholarship awards students for their positive efforts in spreading awareness and effecting change regarding mental health.