The first regional dementia population screening in Germany drew a great deal of interest. On the screening day organized by digiDEM Bayern, many residents of Thüngersheim, Lower Franconia, near Würzburg took advantage of the short distance and the opportunity to have their memory tested free of charge using a brief scientific test. The event was hosted by digiDEM Bayern, the Bavarian Digital Dementia Registry in Erlangen, and the Kommunale Allianz Main-Wein-Garten e.V.
Photo: digiDEM Bavaria
With the 1st Dementia Screening Day, digiDEM Bavaria (Digital Dementia Registry Bavaria) successfully broke new ground. „The first regional population screening in rural areas was well received,“ said Prof. Dr. Peter Kolominsky-Rabas, one of the project leaders of digiDEM Bavaria. „Our goal is to raise public awareness about dementia and counteract stigmatization.“
Scientific Briefs
Together with his team of five young researchers, the neurologist conducted a total of nearly 50 short scientific tests in the Thüngersheim sports hall. „We are pleased about everyone who takes the first step towards timely diagnosis and thus gains certainty,“ explains Peter Kolominsky-Rabas. The so-called Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) does not replace a comprehensive medical diagnosis. However, after a testing period of 15 minutes, it provides initial indications of whether further clarification is necessary.
The neurologist emphasizes: „The earlier dementia is detected, the earlier people with dementia and their relatives can learn to cope with the symptoms of the illness, and the earlier treatment and support options can be put in place.“ Eight communities from the two districts of Würzburg and Main-Spessart participated in the population screening: Erlabrunn, Himmelstadt, Leinach, Margetshöchheim, Retzstadt, Thüngersheim, Zell, and Zellingen. The dementia screening day was supported by the Bavarian State Ministry of Health and Care (StMGP) as part of the Bavarian Dementia Strategy.
