Roeselare (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Roeselare opened its 1st dementia drop-in centre, led by the Alzheimer League and Sophia Dementie Expertise Centrum. Open every 4th Thursday, it offers guidance, support, and seeks volunteers for community help.
As VRT News reported, Roeselare has opened its 1st dementia drop-in centre. The initiative follows similar centres in Ingelmunster and Ostend. Visitors can get information about available services and practical guidance. The centre also wants to encourage early help. Many families delay seeking support because of social taboos.
“Many doctors, but also patients themselves, talk about how symptoms are often ignored,”
says Krisje Tordoir of the Alzheimer League.
“It’s pretty much minimised: ‘It’s probably stress, or it’s just age.” Now, in some cases, there’s nothing seriously wrong, but people are still very worried.”
What will Roeselare’s new dementia centre offer?
According to officials, early detection of dementia is very important. If the disease is found in its early stages, some medications can slow its progress. Experts say people should trust their instincts. Anyone noticing changes in memory or thinking should seek advice as soon as possible.
The new dementia drop-in centre in Roeselare is a collaboration between local healthcare organisations, the Alzheimer League, and the Sophia Dementia Expertise Centre. The centre is open every 4th Thursday of the month from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Rinus Community Centre. The centre is also looking for volunteers to assist with reception, providing information, and promotion.
On 20 September 2021, the region of Flanders unveiled its new dementia policy, which runs until 2025 and aims to enhance support for citizens with dementia. This policy emphasises prevention, early identification, and improved care services. As a part of this commitment, officials established the drop-in centre in Roeselare.
