On 24 January, Spominčica - Alzheimer Slovenija was raising awareness about dementia on the Slovenian television show "Dobro Jutro" (Good Morning), which is very popular across the Slovenian population, especially among older people. Štefanija L. Zlobec, President of Spominčica, discussed the importance of dementia care for patients and carers, while Dr Milica G. Kramberger spoke on the neuroscientific subject of dementia, and Spominičica member and carer Nina Dovšak discussed her personal experience. The highlight of the show was the cognitive training, which allowed the two hosts to put themselves to the test. Listeners could also phone in to the show. Štefanija L. Zlobec answered the question "Is dementia curable?". Because dementia is a disease for which no new, effective solution has been discovered in the last 18 years, the global medical community is increasingly highlighting the necessity and effectiveness of prevention and risk-reduction. Delaying, if not preventing, the onset of dementia is especially crucial for young people, she said, noting that risk-reduction includes anything that is healthy for the heart as this is also excellent for the brain.
A healthy lifestyle, socialising, playing music, solving puzzles, and playing other mentally stimulating games are all examples of risk-reduction. Active living strengthens the brain, which is the most effective dementia treatment. Dr Gregorič Kramberger added her thoughts on prevention: "According to studies, 40% of all risk variables can be modified before the first signs of dementia arise, hence delaying dementia. Mental activity, such as learning other languages and listening to music, as well as a healthy Mediterranean diet and socialising, are among them. Because we fall into a habit as we get older, it's necessary to break it at least twice a week by challenging ourselves and doing something different." Ms Dovšak, for her part, shared her experiences of spending 11 difficult years caring for her husband, who had Alzheimer's dementia from the age of 57.
Spominčica appears in the Slovenian media on a regular basis, raising awareness about dementia, specifically about the importance of recognising the first signs, getting an accurate diagnosis, and destigmatising the condition. Spominčica noted that "Slovenia is gradually progressing toward the dementia-friendly environment that we all strive for".
