Tirol schedules free dementia advice and workshops

Tirol will host free lectures, workshops and advice sessions for people living with dementia, relatives and other interested people this autumn, ORF reports. Events are scheduled in St. Johann in Tirol on October 17 and in Hall in Tirol on November 5.

The “Dementia Practice Days” focus on helping people with dementia manage everyday life. The series was developed in cooperation with the “Dementia Requires Expertise” initiative of the Tirol Kliniken. Experts will provide advice and information about available services at the events.

About 13,700 women and men in Tirol currently live with dementia. That figure could double by 2050. Worldwide, more than 50 million people are thought to be affected.

Events in October and November

The next event will take place on October 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Medicubus in St. Johann in Tirol. Registration is required by October 9 by telephone at 05352-6068026 or by email at [email protected].

A second event will be held on November 5 from 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at UMIT in Hall in Tirol. Further information is available from the Coordination Office for Dementia.

Dementia can have many forms

Dementia does not follow one uniform pattern. It can affect cognitive abilities, significantly change daily life and cause psychological symptoms such as depression or sleep disorders. Physical changes, including problems with walking and balance or dizziness, can also occur.

Early signs may include increasing difficulty with everyday activities such as dressing, driving, cooking, making phone calls, holding longer conversations, handling bank transactions or finding misplaced items. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, followed by vascular dementia. There is currently no cure.

The Coordination Office for Dementia in Tirol maintains an interactive map listing support services, including local self-help groups, mobile care, day care and speech therapy. Digital counselling and discussion sessions are also available, along with activities such as reading, making music, cooking and visiting museums or concerts. The office also provides information on possible financial support, partial-care leave and adult representation.

Lifestyle can reduce risk

About one-third to one-half of Alzheimer’s cases are linked to risk factors that can be influenced. Public health physician Barbara Schmid said that important decisions can be made between the ages of 30 and 65. Lowering blood pressure, exercising regularly, maintaining social activities, doing mental training, eating a balanced diet and not smoking can help reduce the risk.

Regular medical check-ups and treatment for hearing and vision problems are also important. Anyone concerned about possible dementia should first contact their general practitioner. Early diagnosis allows treatment and further support to be planned more effectively.