HM The Queen's opening speech at dementia conference

It is an honour to be here today to discuss a matter that is very close to my heart.

Dementia is one of the largest, most complex, and challenging health issues facing humanity today. Therefore, seeing all of you here and your commitment for this cause fills me with hope.

In Sweden alone, between 20,000 and 25,000 people are diagnosed with a dementia disorder each year. This means that every day, at least 55 men and women are affected by an incurable disease. The knowledge of having a serious illness turns life upside down and can come as a shock, not only for the person diagnosed but also for their relatives and loved ones.

At the same time, we are living longer in the Nordic countries. This is a positive trend. Today's elderly have grown up under different and better conditions compared to previous generations. Many have higher education and an improved living standard. However, demographic development also poses challenges.

Old age is a risk factor for developing dementia, and in the Nordic countries, an estimated 500,000 men and women live with this disease today. With demographic development and an aging population, the number of people with dementia is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. There is currently no effective treatment for the disease, but a lot of research is being conducted in the field of pharmaceuticals.

Ladies and gentlemen,

In 1996, I started the Silviahemmet Foundation, which aims to improve the education and training of staff working with dementia patients.

Through Silviahemmet, we strive to disseminate knowledge and develop methods that significantly improve the quality of life for those with dementia and their relatives. Since 1997, in collaboration with Sophiahemmet University, training has been provided to become a certified Silvia Sister. Today, it is offered both nationally and internationally, with an emphasis on person-centred care.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The theme of today’s conference is the preventive perspective. Although dementia cannot be completely prevented, its onset may be delayed, or symptoms alleviated. For a long time, dementia was perceived as something that could not be influenced. However, recent research reveals that certain lifestyle habits have a significant impact on cognitive functions and can even provide some protection against dementia.

The Lancet Commissions and the World Health Organization (WHO) have reported on factors that affect the relative risk of developing dementia. Examples are high blood pressure, alcohol consumption, obesity, social isolation, physical inactivity, smoking, and air pollution. These factors affect the risk of developing dementia at different periods in life and can be significantly influenced by healthcare and social services.

Many studies also suggest that social contacts can have positive effects and prevent the onset of dementia. Current research does not provide a clear answer on how to mitigate involuntary loneliness among the elderly. However, this research can help us understand which individualised measures and interventions can reduce involuntary loneliness and isolation.

It is crucial to improve care and support for those living with dementia in the Nordic countries today, as well as to adopt a preventive perspective. It is never too late or too early to start reviewing one's lifestyle habits to prevent dementia. While natural aging cannot be avoided, it is possible to strengthen health and increase the chances of a healthier old age.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Thank you for taking the time to listen to me and for being here today. Your commitment to this important issue is truly appreciated. I look forward to our seminars and discussions and to the collaborative efforts that will drive meaningful change.