Patients suffering from dementia often cannot articulate themselves clearly. If they constantly shout out incomprehensible words or even react aggressively towards their surrounding, it can be a difficult situation for the people caring for them. Scientists are therefore researching support possibilities to unburden the interaction for both parties. The most important tool: an understanding for the human behind the illness.

For four days the trade fair REHACARE in Düsseldorf had its doors wide open. For four days the main subject in the six exhibition halls was "Self-determined living"
Horst Giesen, Project Director REHACARE, registers a positive balance and gives a glance into the future.

Living an independent and autonomous life with disabilities, is usually not easy. Of course it depends on the disability, but often also depends on the provision of therapeutic aid. Helpers, who are individually customized are able to assist people with disabilities in all walks of life: When moving, with their personal care or communication. Nowadays HighTech plays a crucial role - as the trade fair REHACARE in Düsseldorf shows.

According to the forecast of the "World Alzheimer's Report 2009" in 2010 more than 35 million people were suffering from some form of dementia - ten percent more than in 2005, when the last survey was conducted. An increasing trend - experts estimate that based on a consistent development the number of patients will nearly double every 20 years. Not only in view of these surveys scientists and politicians urge that further research on dementia should be conducted, as well as searching for therapys. In Rostock, Prof. Dr. Dr. Jens Pahnke has worked in this field in recent years and has a very good reputation. Through his findings the barriers behind dementia might be able to be opened.