A national conference on dementia care, titled "Empowering Minds: Innovation and Compassion in Dementia Care," was recently held in Malta.

Organised by the Dementia Directorate and the Active Ageing and Community Care agency, the event gathered professionals, carers, families, researchers, and experts to discuss advancements in dementia care.

Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Active Ageing, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, highlighted the human aspects of dementia in his speech, saying that "dementia affects memory, identity and relationships - the elements that make us who we are. And despite the challenges, every person suffering from dementia still has something to offer, while still having the right to live with dignity."

Agius Galea also shared the Government's vision for improving dementia care, focusing on a more personalised, safe, and high-quality approach.  He spoke about initiatives such as Brain Health Clinics, the Care4Elders project, and cognitive stimulation programmes, all of which aim to understand and address dementia with greater compassion and understanding.

The conference also stressed the importance of supporting caregivers, both professionals and family members. Agius Galea said: "We cannot expect excellence in care if we do not invest in the livelihoods and well-being of those who provide that care."

The event concluded with an award ceremony, recognising individuals and teams who have made outstanding contributions to dementia care. These included both informal carers and professionals dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by dementia.