The six-part hybrid series of events “Dementia concerns us all” . Story. From September 28th to December 7th, 2022, more than 200 people attended the free events in the Square HSG , in the Innovationspark Ost and online. The topic of dementia was examined from different perspectives such as research, medicine, care and economics.
The series of events started on September 28, 2022. It was developed and carried out as part of a newly launched cooperation program between the University of St. Gallen and the Switzerland Innovation Park Ost. Sabine Hoidn from the Sociology Seminar introduced the program together with Innovationspark Managing Director Hans Ebinger .
Importance of the diagnosis
The events made it clear that dementia has many faces. The disease does not always start with a memory impairment and the symptoms vary. A diagnosis can often relieve the burden because it creates certainty and shows options for action and therapy. But with the diagnosis comes fears and insecurities.
living with dementia
What it means for those affected and their relatives to live with a diagnosis of dementia was discussed at several events. So, in addition to experts, those affected also had their say. They talked about how they dealt with the disease and the challenges they faced in everyday life.
Financial and social consequences
In view of the demographic development, dementia will make even greater demands on the healthcare system, society and the state in the future. Nursing professionals, for example, are constantly concerned with the question of how to best organize admission and stay in a nursing home. With informal care and support, relatives also perform an enormous task. The indirect costs they bear amount to several million Swiss francs a year because they are not available as potential workers in the market.
Great interest, active participation
The audience appreciated the diverse program. The mix of scientific findings and case studies as well as the varied format with presentations and moderated discussions were also well received. The visitors always took the opportunity to contribute their own experiences and questions.
sequel follows
All those responsible for the event can look back with satisfaction on the successful premiere. In spring 2023, the Switzerland Innovation Park Ost and the Department of Sociology at the University of St. Gallen will continue their cooperation program. Upcoming events will focus even more on prevention and healthy ageing.
