Health initiatives in Italy target dementia and mental health

Health initiatives in Italy are focusing on dementia and mental health awareness. In the Emilia Romagna region, dementia prevalence is estimated at 25.2 cases per thousand inhabitants, with over 93,000 people affected. In the Rimini province, approximately 3,000 to 3,300 individuals are living with Alzheimer’s. Experts emphasize the heavy emotional and practical burden placed on caregivers as the disease reduces patient autonomy and alters family dynamics.

To mark World Mental Health Day, Fondazione Onda ETS and ASL VCO are organizing an ‘Open Week for Brain Health.’ The initiative includes free services and awareness activities across various locations, such as Omegna, Domodossola, and Verbania. Programs include psychological consultations, art therapy, music therapy, and educational workshops designed to promote mental health culture among students and the general public.