CONFERENCE FOR PROFESSIONALS: On September 30 and October 1, you are invited to attend a two-day Nordic and Baltic conference on two topical matters: support for people with dementia and solutions for inclusive urban environments. The aim of the conference is to gather experts from the Nordic and Baltic countries to inspire action through practical, experience-based examples and to promote cross-sector collaboration. The conference is organised in cooperation with the Welfare Department of the Riga City Council.
Speakers at the conference are leading experts from the Nordic and Baltic countries, including representatives from the Nordic Welfare Centre and state institutions in Estonia, Finland, Norway and Sweden.
DAY ONE
September 30, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Dementia. Support for people with dementia, their relatives, and professionals.
If we were to rely solely on statistics, we might conclude that dementia is significantly less prevalent in Latvia, with just under 10,000 diagnosed cases, compared to the Nordic countries, where around 500,000 cases are registered. However, dementia is one of the most frequently undiagnosed or misdiagnosed medical conditions in Latvia, and many of us would recognize it among our relatives or acquaintances.
Although there is currently no medical cure for dementia, various preventive measures, early diagnosis, support systems, and innovative care methods in the Nordic countries have shown positive results. There is also growing interest in these issues in Latvia, which is why the first day of the conference is dedicated to bringing together practitioners from the Nordic countries and Latvia.
Discussions will focus on effective support systems for dementia patients across different countries, early diagnosis, support for relatives, well-being of caregivers and innovative solutions in dementia care.
After the event, we invite you to stay for refreshments and continue the conversations in an informal setting.
Target audience: representatives of social care centers, social work specialists, caregivers, social care policy makers, politicy makers and other interested parties.
DAY TWO
October 1, 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Urban areas accessible for all generations
From a Nordic perspective, a city that is suitable for everyone is accessible, safe, humane, and comfortable for all individuals. The fundamental principle of universal design is to create an inclusive and comfortable environment for everyone. For some, this is a convenience; for others, it may be a necessity. Nordic architects and urban planners have extensive experience in designing urban environments that are centered around people. Universal design does not impose specific requirements for any particular social group; instead, it ensures that every service, infrastructure, and environment is accessible to everyone.
On the second day of the conference, experts from various countries will share their experiences in creating sustainable living spaces adaptable for all generations, universal design, and urban elements that enhance the well-being and inclusion of residents of all ages.
Target audience: urban planning specialists, architects, neighborhood and community activists, NGO representatives, social service providers, social policy makers, politicians, and other interested parties.
Venue: Riga City Council Meeting Hall (Rātslaukums 1) and online.
Language: English, with Latvian translation provided.
Participation: Free, with prior registration required.
The number of seats in the meeting hall is limited, therefore we encourage early registration for in-person participation.
Registration for in-person participation is open until September 23, 2024.
Online registration form: https://forms.gle/KLtYwKei277do3dEA.
The event will be photographed and filmed. Photos and videos may be used for event summaries on the website and social media.
For more information about the conference, please contact us at info@norden.lv
See you at the conference!
