On Friday, 15 May 2026, Spominčica – Alzheimer Slovenia successfully organised its 13th International Dementia Conference ASK 2026 entitled “DEMENTIA TODAY: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS!” at Cankarjev dom conference centre in Ljubljana.
More than 200 participants attended the conference and, through expert lectures, discussions, a round table, and parallel workshops, they jointly explored answers to current challenges in the field of dementia while presenting good practices and innovative approaches to supporting people with dementia and their carers.
The conference was held under the honorary patronage of the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Dr Nataša Pirc Musar. Opening addresses were delivered by Boštjan Koritnik, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Ljubljana, Denis Kordež, State Secretary at the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Slovenia, Paola Barbarino - the former Executive Director of Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI), Angela Bradshaw – Director for Research at Alzheimer Europe, and Štefanija L. Zlobec, President of Spominčica.
Renowned Slovenian and international experts presented the latest findings in the fields of diagnostics, treatment, prevention, palliative support, brain neuroplasticity, long-term care, and innovative approaches to working with people with dementia. Special emphasis was also placed on the role of local communities, the destigmatisation of dementia, and the inclusion of people with dementia in society.
The parallel programme at the conference also attracted considerable interest, featuring creative workshops, presentations of therapeutic approaches, an interactive workshop on the importance of nature for people with dementia, and a round table discussion on living with dementia in the community, support systems, volunteering, and cooperation.
The ASK Dementia Conferences continue the tradition of the Psychogeriatric Meetings, which have been taking place since 1998, and carry forward the mission of the founder of Spominčica, Dr Aleš Kogoj — to spread professional knowledge, understanding, compassion, and support for people with dementia and their families.
Spominčica's sincere thanks go to all lecturers, moderators, participants, volunteers, partners, sponsors, and attendees who, through their support, cooperation, and presence, helped create such an important and heartfelt event.
