Lino Banfi and Experts Discuss Alzheimer’s Detection at Al Tempo della Salute

Memory lapses rarely arrive with a clear warning, but recognizing the distinction between normal aging and early cognitive decline remains one of modern neurology’s central challenges, as discussed during the Al Tempo della Salute event and reported by Corriere della Sera.

Key Clinical Takeaways:

• Subjective memory complaints affect about 25 percent of individuals over 60, representing the initial presentation of Alzheimer’s disease in a specific subset of patients.
• Monoclonal antibodies such as lecanemab and donanemab target beta-amyloid proteins to slow cognitive decline in patients diagnosed during early stages.

An estimated 600,000 people live with Alzheimer’s disease in Italy, a condition affecting not only patients but also the family members who care for them, according to Corriere della Sera.

The discussion featured actor and Airalzh ETS ambassador Lino Banfi, Alessandra Mocali, president of the Italian Alzheimer’s Research Association, and Maria Salsone, associate professor of neurology at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and head of the neurology unit and stroke unit at Policlinico San Donato, with moderation by Elena Meli.

Not every instance of forgetfulness points toward dementia, as age-related changes can make retrieving names more difficult without disrupting daily life, Corriere della Sera reported. Salsone explained that distinguishing physiological brain aging from pathological aging depends on how specific proteins accumulate within the brain over a neurodegenerative process spanning roughly 20 years.

“La prima distinzione che deve essere fatta è tra un invecchiamento fisiologico del nostro cervello, quello che chiamiamo aging, e invece quello che è l’invecchiamento patologico che poi porta alle demenze.”

Patients frequently report a subjective sense of reduced mental sharpness, diminished attention, or difficulty remembering recent names and facts. Approximately 70 percent of dementia cases, particularly Alzheimer’s, present in female patients, and these subjective complaints frequently emerge in clinical settings among women.

Mocali advised individuals experiencing cognitive changes to consult a medical specialist promptly rather than relying on unverified online diagnoses. Comprehensive diagnostic pathways typically incorporate cognitive tests, neurological evaluations, and instrumental assessments.

Therapeutic options expanded with the introduction of monoclonal antibodies designed to target beta-amyloid proteins in patients with early-stage disease, Corriere della Sera reported. In July 2026, two patients aged 63 and 67 began treatment with donanemab under compassionate use protocols at Policlinico San Donato.

“Siamo entusiasti di poter offrire alle due pazienti più giovani seguite presso il nostro Centro una nuova opportunità terapeutica, potenzialmente in grado di rallentare la progressione della malattia.”

Family caregiving presents profound emotional adjustments, as illustrated by Banfi, who cared for his late wife Lucia until her passing in 2023. Banfi recounted an early incident during a trip to Termoli when his wife expressed sudden confusion about their location hours after arrival, serving as an initial warning sign recognized by his physician.

“Mia moglie Lucia voleva andare in un posto, non conosceva Termoli e io dissi neanch’io.”

Banfi advised caregivers to adopt empathetic communication strategies rather than repeatedly correcting memory lapses. Alongside pharmacological treatments, non-pharmacological interventions such as cognitive stimulation programs, museum inclusion projects, and community support initiatives help reduce family isolation and preserve patient dignity.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.