The Plenament Actives program, implemented in Barcelona, focuses on individuals in the initial stages of Alzheimer's disease. At this point, participants still retain many of their cognitive abilities, allowing them to actively make decisions about their future and fully engage in the process.
One of the first participants, a former teacher, described the moment of diagnosis as an initial shock, but now emphasizes how the program has provided her with security, autonomy, and strategies to manage the neurodegenerative disease. She began noticing memory problems years before the medical confirmation, with episodes she described as a “brain fog”.
“"After many such moments, you expect it, but you still think it can't happen to you."
The foundation's initiative is based on eight weekly one-hour sessions, conducted in small groups of six people. These sessions combine accessible information about Alzheimer's, emotional support, and a space for shared reflection on participants' identity and life projects.
Since its launch in September, the pilot project has involved 25 individuals, 17 of whom have completed the intervention. Preliminary results indicate a high attendance rate of 96% and high satisfaction levels, with perceived improvements in overall well-being, emotional understanding, and coping ability.
“"The group has been key for us to get to know each other and share our experiences, each one different, until you feel accompanied and understood."
Beyond the data, the most significant impact of the program is the reduction of isolation and the reinforcement of a sense of belonging among patients. One participant highlights the importance of maintaining an active life, continuing to make decisions, and not abandoning personal projects despite the diagnosis.
“"We still have our essence and we can still do a thousand things."
A therapist who accompanies the sessions emphasizes that the program addresses the need for support for individuals who, despite living with the disease, maintain full autonomy and face doubts about the future and stigmas. A neurologist from the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center adds that these interventions are “completely necessary” given the increasing precocity of diagnoses thanks to research advancements. The Plenament Actives project, still in its pilot phase, aims to consolidate and expand to meet the growing demand for support in the early stages of Alzheimer's.
