Working in an interdisciplinary manner and finding solutions to global challenges together: With this approach, the Innovationspark Ost wants to make the socially relevant topic of dementia visible and create impulses for innovations. In the six-part hybrid event series “Dementia concerns us all”, the topic is examined from different perspectives. The series is the start of the new cooperation program between the University of St. Gallen and the Innovation Park.

Dementia – the diagnosis is often a shock for those affected and their families. The insidious disease of the brain has many faces and occurs predominantly in older people (> 60 years). Gradually, more and more brain cells die, and the brain shrinks.

dementia in Switzerland

There are currently around 160,000 people with dementia living in Switzerland, two thirds of those affected are women. In almost 20% of the annual deaths, dementia is regularly the main or secondary diagnosis. The Swiss population is getting older and the number of people suffering from dementia is also increasing. According to forecasts, the number will double in the next twenty years. Dementia has so far been considered incurable – a successful medical therapy is not in sight. Drugs can maximally slow down the progression and have side effects – they cannot prevent nerve death in the brain.

Use different perspectives for innovations

What are the risk factors for cognitive decline? How can we maintain our sanity as we age? What are the biggest challenges for people with dementia? How do they cope with their everyday life, supported by relatives and the nursing staff? What is the latest knowledge from dementia research? And which innovations can improve the quality of life of those affected? The series of events “Dementia concerns us all” deals with these questions by examining the topic from different perspectives. The Innovationspark Ost sees enormous potential for innovations in the fields of health, medtech, MEM industry and digitization in this interdisciplinary approach.

Hybrid event format

Experts have their say in lectures and moderated discussions. At the same time, the audience can contribute with experiences and questions. Interested parties are cordially invited to be there live and online and to take knowledge and inspiration with them. Input from participants is welcome. The events in German always take place on Wednesdays and are free of charge. Speakers and topics will be announced shortly. Registration will be possible online from August. The Innovation Park offers presentation slides for free download on the website.

• Wednesday, September 28, 2022, 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m., Square HSG, ground floor
• Wednesday, October 12, 2022, 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Square HSG, ground floor
• Wednesday, October 26, 2022, 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m., Square HSG, ground floor
• Wednesday, November 9, 2022, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Innovation Park East, Field 7
• Wednesday, November 23, 2022, 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Innovation Park East, Field 7
• Wednesday, December 7, 2022, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Innovation Park East, Field 7

target audience

• Those affected (people with dementia, partners, family members)
• Students, lecturers and researchers
• Healthcare workers (Spitex, nursing homes, hospitals, etc.)
• Medtech companies and start-ups
• interested in innovations
• Population