Leuven Christmas Market

‍A warm glow for dementia

‍The proceeds from the Christmas market’s charity campaign will go to two Leuven-based initiatives that play a vital role in the fight against dementia: Zorgcirkels Jongdementie Leuven, which supports people with early-onset dementia and their carers, and the Leuven Brain Institute at KU Leuven, where scientists conduct research into brain function and neurological disorders, including dementia.

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‍Care for today, research for tomorrow

‍Dementia has a major impact on the person receiving the diagnosis and on the people around them. In the case of early-onset dementia, the diagnosis often comes at a time when people are still in work. Care Circles for Early-Onset Dementia Leuven wants to ensure that no one has to go through this journey alone. That is why they work together to build unique care circles that evolve in line with the needs, wishes and capabilities of the person with early-onset dementia and their support network. They welcome, connect and empower through information, social interaction and personalised support, from the time of diagnosis right through to the end of life. With the proceeds from the Leuven Christmas Market, Zorgcirkels Jongdementie can continue this warm, people-centred work.

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‍But care alone is not enough. That is why a portion of the proceeds goes to the Leuven Brain Institute at KU Leuven. Scientific research is essential to better understand the mechanisms behind dementia and to develop new insights that may contribute to better prevention, earlier detection and more effective treatments in the future.

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‍We are proud to introduce our patrons

‍The Leuven Christmas Market is proud to present Jan Hautekiet and Ben Crabbé as patrons of ‘A Candle for Dementia’. They aim to help make dementia a more open topic of discussion and to encourage people to support the campaign.

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‍Jan Hautekiet has been a staunch supporter of Zorgcirkels Jongdementie for many years. As chair of Het Ventiel and a board member at Psyche and Te Gek!?, he helps to raise awareness of care issues surrounding early-onset dementia. He coordinates the artistic programme for the annual Music for Luc charity concert. That is the power of music: it connects people, evokes memories and can sometimes express what is difficult to put into words.

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‍As the drummer for The Philips, Ben Crabbé has been involved in the Music for Luc charity concert right from the start. As a patron of ‘A Warm Light for Dementia’, he also wants to raise awareness of the impact of the disease. After all, dementia won’t have disappeared by tomorrow, but in this way we can all do our bit.

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‍The Cosy Christmas Café

‍This is a new initiative by Dementia-Friendly Leuven and is supported by the Leuven Police Zone’s senior citizens’ programme.

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‍Come along for a lovely chat, a warm get-together or simply to soak up the Christmas atmosphere on Tuesdays 8 and 15 December from 12 noon to 3.30 pm and on Friday 18 December from 11 am to 3.30 pm. You’re more than welcome at Chalet Artois on Mgr. Ladeuzeplein for a lovely drink or a slice of cake.

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‍You can also discover the beautiful, handmade crafts created by our senior citizens, and by making a purchase – with no obligation – you’ll be supporting dementia-friendly initiatives.

‍You can visit us on the day for information about dementia and the support services available in Leuven.

‍Together, we’re making Leuven a warmer and more dementia-friendly place!