H.M. Drottningens tal vid symposiet Challenges for implementation of new Alzheimer Disease treatments

It is a pleasure to be here today at this symposium supported by the “Foundation for Gamla Tjänarinnor (Old Servants)” and to learn more about the challenges for implementation of new Alzheimer Disease treatments.

This Conference is especially important since Alzheimer is one of the greatest and most complex health challenges of our time.

Just like so many people, all over the world, I too have come to learn how devastating this disease is. I have seen closely what it does to those who suffer from it, and to their loved ones.

Ladies and gentlemen,

You are world-leading researchers in Alzheimer disease, and I am deeply touched by your commitment to this cause. You have gathered here at the Nobel Forum to go through the immense research progress we have recently seen for early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer. For example, we will have new drugs, so called immunotherapies – a great step forward!

But as always, there is a lot more that can be done and must be done. During the years, I have tried to find ways to assist in the everyday lives of those affected. One example is Silviahemmet, that I founded in 1996, with the mission to spread knowledge about dementia through various educational initiatives. Another example is Queen Silvia Nursing Award, which is a project to promote a positive development in the nursing and assistant nurse profession, especially regarding elderly care.

It makes me happy to see further initiatives taking place in other countries. Recently, I inaugurated a hospital in the city of Forst in Germany. Forst is on its way to become the most dementia-friendly city in the country. A very impressive project.

It is my sincere hope that this meeting will bring you inspiration and new opportunities to advance in your ambition, and I am sure you will have good discussions to come closer to solutions for the many challenges that lie ahead of us.

And let me assure you: I have never, ever lost hope, that we will find a way to beat the disease.

I wish you all the best and look forward to following your important work.

Thank you!