The Alzheimer’s Society Annual Conference (ASAC19) took place over two days (21-22 May), at the start of Dementia Action Week at the Kia Oval, London. The conference included: 110 speakers across plenary and parallel sessions; lunchtime symposia; an exhibition and poster hall; a drinks reception on the first evening to celebrate the society’s 40 anniversary; and a dinner for researchers, research network volunteers and special guests. The conference was attended by 632 delegates across the health and social care sectors, local and national government, and the policy and research sectors.
The conference theme was “The Dementia Priority - Local and global action” and looked at what needs to happen now to ensure people with dementia can live the lives they want today and give hope to future generations that we will know a world without dementia. The conference inspired delegates to: take positive action in their jobs and daily lives; share in best practice and knowledge in effective and practical ways; and be committed to championing the needs of and rights and priorities for people affected by dementia. The conference opened with the voices and experiences of people affected by dementia, who discussed the barriers and injustices they have been faced with because of a diagnosis of dementia. The session explored what the impact is, on a daily basis.
On day two, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Matt Hancock MP (pictured), spoke about the UK Government's commitment to tackling dementia and the important work that is being undertaken to improve the lives of people affected by dementia. The conference ended with a panel discussion on “Changing the dialogue on dementia”, and included well-known figures from the media, arts and popular culture, as well as people affected by dementia.