On 25 September 2021, the Association Luxembourg Alzheimer (ALA) organised its 20th Memory Walk on the Place de l'Europe in Luxembourg-Kirchberg. From 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, visitors were able to learn about ALA's services and about Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, from information booths. In this relaxed atmosphere, they had the opportunity to meet great people and take part in many discussions.
Alongside food and information stands, various activities were offered, including a concert by Luxembourg singer Serge Tonnar. The Memory Walk meanwhile allowed participants to show their solidarity with people with dementia. This walk, accompanied by a tour guide, took participants to Fort Thüngen where they could enjoy a breathtaking view of the old town and the fortress.
The theme for this year's Memory Walk was “Dementia, Pay Attention”. When dementia is diagnosed, we tend to see only the disease and no longer the person. But people with dementia still have capacities and they want to participate in everyday life. In order to integrate them, you need to be attentive: there may be a need to speak more slowly, to seek out contact, to choose simpler words and to be patient. People with dementia and their loved ones need to feel that they are part of society despite the illness. The Minister of Families, Corinne Cahen (pictured, centre), also showed her support by gracing the Luxembourg Memory Walk with her presence. After a virtual edition of this event in 2020, the ALA was delighted to be able to celebrate this 20th anniversary face-to-face with a 'real' audience.
