On 26 August, the Estonian NGO Life with Dementia (MTÜ Elu Dementsusega) moderated a Nordic Council debate at the Paide Opinion Festival titled “Did you know that dementia can be prevented?” Experts from Estonia and the Nordic Welfare Centre discussed how lifestyle and community action can reduce dementia risk and support brain health. Speakers stressed that while Alzheimer’s disease cannot be fully prevented, healthy habits such as regular exercise, good sleep, balanced diet and social engagement can delay cognitive decline. The Finnish FINGER model was presented as an evidence-based example, showing the benefits of combining several lifestyle changes. The discussion also highlighted Estonia’s need for a national dementia prevention strategy. Panelists underlined that prevention is not only an individual responsibility but also a societal one. Reducing stigma, promoting inclusion and ensuring community support were seen as key steps towards improving life with dementia. You can watch the debate here: https://youtu.be/9H7l3gQpBpw?si=6VRvhMzkfuYC3Cb9