On 6-7 June, the international conference “Dialogues in Neurodegenerative Disorders” took place in the Union Hall of the Grand Hotel Union in Ljubljana (Slovenia). Spominčica – Alzheimer Slovenija was co-organiser of the event and approximately 250 participants from 20 different countries attended the conference. The ceremonial opening of the international conference brought together top experts, researchers, healthcare professionals, and representatives of social work to discuss the latest achievements and challenges in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.
The conference, held under the honorary patronage of the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Dr Nataša Pirc Musar, represented an important step towards better understanding and addressing these diseases. The keynote speakers at the opening ceremony were the President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia, Mag. Urška Klakočar Zupančič, the President of the National Council, Marko Lotrič, and the Minister of Health of the Republic of Slovenia, Dr Valentina Prevolnik Rupel. All government representatives emphasised the importance of the new Strategy for Dementia Management in Slovenia until 2030.
The conference focused on bridging the gaps between science, healthcare and caregiving, therapeutic programmes and social care, and people with neurodegenerative diseases and their caregivers. Participants were presented with cutting-edge research, innovative solutions to problems arising from neurodegenerative diseases, and best practices in care. Additionally, the conference provided an opportunity for people affected by neurodegenerative diseases to share their life stories and experiences, further connecting the academic and medical community with the public. As an example of good practice, the residents of the Fužine home for the elderly were presented. At the conference, Tomaž Gržinič shared his experience as a person with dementia and member of Spominčica – Alzheimer Slovenija. Numerous international and domestic experts shared their insights and experiences.
The "Dialogues in Neurodegenerative Disorders" conference represented a key event for raising awareness and promoting collaboration among various sectors dealing with neurodegenerative diseases. The organisers hope that the conclusions and recommendations from the conference will contribute to improving the quality of life for patients and their families.