As rates of dementia continue to climb globally, impacting individuals, families, and healthcare systems, experts are increasingly focused on preventative measures. A public forum in Emden on Wednesday, November 26th, will highlight research suggesting lifestyle choices can reduce dementia risk by as much as 40 percent. Hildegard Krüger, chair of the Alzheimer Society Emden-Ostfriesland, will lead the discussion, sharing insights gained from over two decades of supporting those affected by the disease in the region.
Reducing the risk of dementia may be possible – by as much as 40 percent, according to scientists and advocates. Hildegard Krüger, longtime chair of the Alzheimer Society Emden-Ostfriesland, will discuss preventative measures and modifiable risk factors at a public forum on Wednesday, November 26th. This information is crucial as dementia rates continue to rise globally, impacting individuals, families, and healthcare systems.
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Emden –
Experts believe that lifestyle choices can significantly lower the chances of developing dementia. Hildegard Krüger will share insights into these preventable risk factors during an event hosted by the Emder Pflegegenossenschaft for Ostfriesland in collaboration with the Volkshochschule (VHS). Krüger, who founded a residential facility for people with dementia and a self-help group in Emden in 2001, established the Alzheimer Society Emden-Ostfriesland in 2008. The society now supports over 150 members, providing assistance to those affected by dementia and their families.
Age is a Risk Factor
The Alzheimer Research Initiative, a nationwide organization, identifies 14 risk factors that can contribute to dementia. While some, like age and gender, are unavoidable, many are modifiable. These include a lack of physical activity, high blood pressure, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and social isolation or loneliness. Addressing these factors is a key step in promoting brain health.
According to the German Alzheimer’s Association, most people diagnosed with dementia are over the age of 80. The condition rarely begins before age 65. Inherited forms of Alzheimer’s disease are uncommon. The disease is characterized by the progressive loss of nerve cells and the connections between them.
The presentation at the VHS forum will begin on Wednesday, November 26th, at 5:00 PM. Admission is free. The event is part of a series on aging organized by the Emder Pflegegenossenschaft, which will continue in the new year in collaboration with the VHS, covering a range of related topics. “We want to make aging an enjoyable experience for people in Emden and the surrounding area,” said a representative of the Pflegegenossenschaft.
The Alzheimer Research Initiative e.V. identifies several modifiable risk factors for dementia, including smoking, hearing loss, obesity, low educational attainment, high blood pressure, depression, lack of physical activity, diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, traumatic brain injuries, air pollution, social isolation, high LDL cholesterol, and declining vision. A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and social engagement can help reduce the risk of dementia. Addressing these factors could prevent many cases of dementia or delay its progression.
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Since its founding, the Alzheimer Society Emden-Ostfriesland has supported those affected by dementia and their families through volunteer-organized support groups and programs like “Breathing Space,” where individuals with dementia can participate in activities while caregivers receive a much-needed break. The society also provides individual support through trained volunteers who often accompany those with dementia for years, relieving the burden on family caregivers. The organization also emphasizes the value and social inclusion of those affected, helping to combat isolation and stigma.
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The Emder Pflegegenossenschaft plans to cover various topics related to aging in its upcoming event series, including “Community Living in Old Age,” “Dementia and End of Life,” “The Future of Hospital Care in Germany,” pain assessment in people with dementia, and “Violence Prevention in Care.” Additional focuses will be on ethical issues in care, such as decision-making for patients who are unable to consent, as well as offerings and discussions surrounding farewell, care, and comfort at the end of life. The events are aimed at care professionals, those affected, family members, and the general public and will run until the end of April.
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