An estimated 152,000 people live with dementia in Flanders and Brussels. By 2040, that figure is expected to rise to 210,000, an increase of 40 per cent. The projection comes from the latest prevalence data published by the Flanders Dementia Expertise Centre, reports 24brussels.
The increase in dementia cases is attributed to the ageing population. More than one in ten individuals over 65 is affected by dementia, with the prevalence rising to over one in five among those over 80 and reaching as high as four in ten for those over 90.
The most significant growth is anticipated in Limburg, the Northern Kempen region, and along the coast. In urban areas, the rise will be more gradual due to younger demographics; however, notable increases are still projected, with a 32 per cent rise in Antwerp and a 38 per cent increase in Ghent.
To commemorate World Alzheimer’s Day on Sunday, 21 September, the Flanders Dementia Expertise Centre is launching the “2 for the price of 1” campaign, promoting the message “What’s good for your heart is good for your brain.” This initiative encourages the adoption of a brain-healthy lifestyle.
