On September 21, it was World Alzheimer’s Day, the perfect moment to come together and raise extra awareness for Alzheimer’s disease and all other forms of dementia. Each year, the regional departments of Alzheimer Nederland organise wonderful activities for all ages around World Alzheimer’s Day, aiming to increase understanding and involvement in dementia. This year’s theme was “Making music together.” Making and listening to music gives joy, brings back memories, creates warmth, connection and a pleasant atmosphere. It is essential for people both with and without dementia. Over the past two weeks, Alzheimer Nederland’s passionate volunteers from the 48 regional departments across the Netherlands were busy organising music activities. For example, in Apeldoorn, there was a sing-along version of the film “The sound of music” in collaboration with the local cinema. In Arnhem, a special project choir, Koor zonder Grenzen (“Choir without borders”), performed. In Ammerzoden, local artists gave a Top 50 Memories Concert, featuring some of the most beloved Dutch songs. From ‘song bingo’ in Groningen to ‘moving to music’ in Den Ham, there was something for everyone. In Nijmegen, visitors could even dance the afternoon away at a jukebox event with pop music from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. The aim of all these activities was to create beautiful new memories once again.
Pictured: A record to be proud of! During the #MemoriesRide on 29 September, over EUR 280,000 was raised. No fewer than 1,000 people cycled or walked, often remembering a loved one. Along the route, the Unforgettable Kilometer made a deep impression: a place where memories took centre stage and stories were shared. Sometimes sad, sometimes heartwarming.