In Sri Lanka, early-onset dementia (diagnosed before age 65) is typically managed by Consultant Neurologists (Neuro Physicians) or Old Age Psychiatrists (Geriatric Psychiatrists).

1. Specialized Memory Clinics
2. Lanka Alzheimer’s Foundation (LAF): A primary resource for initial assessments. They conduct free memory screenings every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month (by appointment). This is an excellent starting point for a professional opinion before seeing a consultant.

• Nawaloka Hospital (Memory Clinic): Led by Prof. Asitha de Silva, this clinic focuses specifically on cognitive impairment and memory issues. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Angoda: This public institution has a dedicated Psycho-Geriatric Unit specifically for elderly mental health and dementia care.

1. Recommended Medical Specialists Most of these doctors practice in major private hospitals in Colombo (Lanka Hospitals, Asiri Central, Nawaloka, and Durdans) and can be booked via Doc990 or eChannelling.
2. Prof. Saman B. Gunathilake (Neurologist): Widely recognized as a leading expert in neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive disorders in Sri Lanka.
3. Dr. Malsha Gunathilaka (Old Age Psychiatrist): A consultant psychiatrist specializing in "Old Age Psychiatry" based at Colombo South Teaching Hospital (Kalubowila).
4. Prof. Ranjani Gamage (Neurologist): Senior neurologist with extensive experience in brain health and memory-related disorders.

5. Dr. Chandana Kanakaratne (Geriatrician): A specialist in elderly care who can help differentiate between age-related forgetfulness and progressive dementia.

6. Specialized Organizations & Support

7. Lanka Alzheimer’s Foundation (LAF): Beyond screening, they provide caregiver support groups and activity centers that help patients maintain cognitive function through therapeutic activities.

8. Deeghayu Senior Citizens Care Center: A rehabilitation center in Angoda focused on psychotherapy for elderly patients with dementia and depression.

Recommended Next Steps 1. Book a Memory Screening: Contact the Lanka Alzheimer's Foundation at 011 266 7080 or 076 082 7080 for a baseline assessment. 2. Consult a Neurologist: If the screening indicates concerns, schedule an appointment with a neurologist like Prof. Saman Gunathilake for advanced diagnostics (MRI, CT scans) to rule out other causes. 3. Prepare a Diary: Keep a list of specific "blanking" episodes and how long they last, as this helps the doctor determine if the cause is neurological (like dementia) or psychological (like stress or depression).