In the complex world of neurodegenerative dementias, non-pharmacological therapies play a crucial role in treating individuals with neurodegenerative dementias such as Alzheimer's. These therapies, addressing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of the disease, are essential as pharmacology sometimes only offers partial relief. The role of sensory stimulation is noteworthy, as through cultural activities such as gastronomy, it can provide significant connection to the surroundings, triggering memories, emotions, and motor responses in people with dementia.

This year, the project The Senses of Memory aims to harness these benefits of sensory stimulation through gastronomic activities in Galicia. With the support of the NOVE Group, the 15 associations of the Alzheimer Galicia Federation will carry out 27 recipes designed, prepared, and executed by individuals with dementia. This approach not only promotes the social inclusion of people with dementia but also contributes to boosting their self-esteem and sense of belonging. Furthermore, the project seeks to preserve and disseminate local culinary traditions, as well as encourage local commerce.

The Senses of Memory spread Galician culture through traditional gastronomy, involving people with dementia from the 15 associations that make up FAGAL.

The project promotes the interaction of people with dementia in their environment, with the collaboration of families, neighbors, associations, companies, and local businesses, to create a society committed to Alzheimer’s.

We pay attention to reminiscence using objects and aromas to connect with personal memories associated with food. It is important to highlight the collaboration of prestigious chefs, such as the members of NOVE Group, in the preparation of traditional recipes and the commitment of Companies and Solidarity Entities to Alzheimer’s.

As a result of this project and all the activities carried out, various awareness materials will be produced:

A solidarity cookbook that will include typical recipes from each locality and reminiscence stories of the users.

A documentary report to give visibility to the activities carried out in the associations.

The results will be disseminated through the social networks of the Alzheimer Galicia Federation, press releases, and news on the website, as well as in the monthly newsletter. The entities that supported the project The Senses of Memory will have presence and our gratitude on the Federation's website.

On World Alzheimer's Day in September 2024, the associations of people with dementia in Galicia will gather in Santiago de Compostela to present the cookbook and the documentary report, highlighting the work of the member associations of FAGAL and the social inclusion of people with dementia.

The Alzheimer Galicia Federation wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the companies and solidarity entities that make The Senses of Memory.possible. Thanks to their support and trust, the project will be able to disseminate Galician culture through traditional gastronomy, involving people with dementia and promoting their social inclusion. Without their contribution, this project would not be a reality. The generosity of these companies and entities has a positive impact on the community and on the quality of life of people with dementia and their caregivers.

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