Age is the biggest risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. People over the age of 80 are particularly affected: 12% of those aged 80 to 84, 22% of those aged 85 to 89 and 41% of those aged over 90 are diagnosed with dementia. Despite the frequent occurrence of the disease in these age groups, many of those affected still find it difficult to talk openly about their own dementia or that of their loved ones.

The idea of the unstoppable loss of reason and increasing dependency associated with dementia fuels fears and often leads to feelings of shame in those affected. The lack of hope for a cure helps perpetuate the image of a terrible disease characterized by loss: loss of attachments, memory, orientation and autonomy. One consequence of this is a taboo: preventive examinations are avoided, relatives downplay the seriousness of the situation, and important precautions such as advance directives or living wills are not taken.

There are also many taboo topics in the care and nursing of people with dementia: What about the sexual needs of those suffering from dementia? How do I cope with the change of role from partner to carer? What if caring for my wife disgusts me? Many people want to stay in familiar surroundings for as long as possible; Is home care always the best solution? In order to change the view of the disease, the National Dementia Conference on April 30, 2024 will be dedicated to these taboo topics and show ways to deal with them openly. In this way, it makes an important contribution to ensuring that sick people and their relatives are accepted and respected in society.