Now online, the video and recording of the last "Free from Fears" encounter

The final event in the "Free from Fears" series took place on Thursday, 15 May 2025. Titled "Reading Behaviour," it focused on understanding the behavioural changes that can occur with dementia. This event provided an opportunity to explore practical strategies and valuable insights for recognising signs of change, understanding their underlying causes, and responding with empathy and awareness in daily life.

The new animated video "Reading Behaviour: Coffee" was premiered, showing how small gestures and tricks in everyday relationships can improve communication and strengthen the bond with the person with dementia. The video is available online.
The video concept was conceived by the research team led by Dr Maddalena Fiordelli, with the participation of Dr Anna Messina, Dr Rebecca Amati and Anna Maria Annoni from the Institute of Public Health (IPH). The production was handled by video maker Milly Miljkovic, with Ambra Guidotti providing technical support for audio editing.

The encounter featured Prof. Rabih Chattat, from the University of Bologna, an expert in the psychology of ageing and social relations, Dr Paolo Paolantonio, from Conservatorio della Svizzera italiana, proposed an original reflection on the role of music in the relationship with individuals with dementia, accompanying his presentation with guided listening to select pieces. Additionally, Fausta Pezzoli-Vedova, a family caregiver and author of the book "Il filo spezzato" (The Broken Thread), shared her personal experience. Moderating the encounter and the entire series "Free from fears" was Giancarlo Dillena, journalist and lecturer at USI. He guided the dialogue between the experts and the audience with sensitivity and expertise, offering valuable insights and encouraging active and engaged participation.

The recording of the event is now available at the following link.

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The "Free from fears" project is implemented by the Institute of Public Health of Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), in collaboration with Alzheimer's Ticino, Lugano Istituti Sociali (LIS), Swiss Red Cross - Sottoceneri Section, Department of Health and Social Affairs of the Canton of Ticino (DSS), Pro Senectute Ticino e Moesano, Associazione Ticinese degli Psicologi (ATP) and the City of Lugano. It is financed by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF).

For more information on the project, click here.