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On September 14, 2024, Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple hosted a seminar titled “Innovative Management for Dementia,” led by Dr. Yuan-Han Yang, Director of the FGS Compassion Foundation’s Mentally Protection Center. The event drew a large, engaged audience eager to learn more about dementia-related issues. Dr. Yang’s presentation covered the causes of dementia and the latest advancements in treatment, with a special focus on meditation as a non-drug approach.
Dr. Yang emphasized the importance of early diagnosis in managing dementia effectively. He discussed recent developments in medical technology, including new drug therapies, while also highlighting the benefits of non-pharmacological treatments. Among these, meditation stood out for its positive effects on memory, focus, and emotional well-being, showing promising results in slowing cognitive decline.
"Meditation doesn’t just calm the mind—it enhances neuroplasticity in the brain," Dr. Yang explained. He noted that practices like focused breathing and mindfulness can help delay the progression of dementia. He encouraged incorporating meditation into daily routines as part of a comprehensive care plan. Dr. Yang also proposed a collaboration between Hsi Lai Temple and the University of the West to create meditation programs tailored for seniors. By blending Buddhist mindfulness with medical research, these programs could potentially aid in preventing dementia, benefiting not only patients but also participants’ overall health and well-being.
During the Q&A session, the audience raised thoughtful questions on topics ranging from music’s effects on dementia to how spatial memory is impacted, early symptom recognition, and prevention strategies. Dr. Yang answered thoroughly, reiterating that a combination of exercise, social interaction, mental stimulation, and meditation is one of the most effective approaches to both preventing and treating dementia.
Many attendees said the seminar broadened their understanding of dementia and sparked an interest in meditation. One participant shared, "I never knew meditation could do so much for the brain. I’m thinking about joining a program now."
Dr. Yang encouraged future collaboration between Hsi Lai Temple and the University of the West to develop innovative projects that integrate meditation with medical care. Such initiatives could improve the quality of life for seniors and dementia patients while offering holistic support for both physical and mental health to the community at large.
(Photos Provided by Hsi Lai Temple)
