Agrigento Hosts Accomplished Conference Addressing Neurodegenerative Diseases & Mental Health, Honoring Local Pioneer
Agrigento, Italy – A scientific conference focused on neurodegenerative diseases and mental health concluded today in Agrigento, drawing healthcare professionals and prominent figures from the Italian arts community. The event, organized by the UOC of degenerative diseases of the ASP of Agrigento, highlighted advancements in understanding and treating conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia, while also paying tribute to a local leader in the field.
The conference featured presentations from qualified speakers – including doctors, biologists, psychologists, pharmacists, nurses, and social workers – addressing multiple themes related to degenerative dementia, Alzheimer’s dementia, Parkinson’s, and depression, with a specific focus on the vital role of territorial daytime centers.
A particularly moving moment came with the declaration of a proposal to name the “Day Center Cognitive Disorders and dementia” after the late Giuseppe Pippo Provenzano, a respected pharmacologist and psychiatrist and former director of the UOC of degenerative and involutive diseases, who passed away in March.
The event also welcomed acclaimed actor and director Michele Placido and film producer Federica Luna Vincenti, recognized for their sensitive portrayals of dementia and aging in their work. Placido and Vincenti discussed their upcoming Rai1 miniseries,”The Judge and His Killers,” dedicated to the memory of Blessed Rosario Livatino,a magistrate considered a martyr of justice and faith. Placido revealed the project originated from a conversation with Pope Francis, who expressed keen interest in Livatino’s story.
Vincenti further contributed to the event with a musical performance, accompanying herself on the piano with Maestro salvatore Galante, performing songs by Battiato and Milva. She emphasized the power of art to serve science and medicine, stating, “Show and art put themselves at the service of science and medicine to understand, treat and take care of the patient.”
General Manager of the ASP of Agrigento, dott. Giuseppe Capodieci, along with dr. Leonardo Giordano and Dr. Liana gucciardino, presented commemorative plates to Placido and Vincenti, acknowledging Placido’s “social commitment.” Dr. Capodieci described the presentation as “an emotion,” praising the dedication of the UOC operators and the scientific leadership of Dr.Gucciardino.
The conference, skillfully moderated by Simona Carisi and Giuseppe Moscato, underscored Agrigento’s commitment to addressing critical healthcare challenges and honoring those who have dedicated their lives to improving patient care.
