Alzheimer's awareness: 200,000 people living with dementia in Chile

On World Alzheimer's Day, health specialists are highlighting the importance of recognizing early signs of cognitive decline. In Chile, the National Dementia Plan 2025–2035 reports that approximately 200,000 people live with dementia, a prevalence affecting 7% of those over the age of 60.

Medical experts, including neurologist Dr. Nicole Rogers, advise that while minor forgetfulness can be common with age, progressive loss of ability that interferes with daily life, communication, or orientation should not be normalized. Warning signs include repeating conversations, losing track of time, difficulty finding words, and changes in personality or mood.

In a cultural reflection of these themes, the play ‘Perdida Mente’ has debuted in the Dominican Republic. The production explores the emotional and social impact of memory loss through the story of a judge struggling to maintain control as her cognitive abilities decline.