Alzheimer & Dementia: “I Am Here” Photo Exhibit in Milan 2026

The exhibition “Io sono qui” (I am here), currently showing at the Osart Gallery in Milan until March 19, 2026, offers a poignant glimpse into daily life at “Paese Ritrovato” (the Recovered Village) in Monza – a pioneering residential community designed for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The exhibit showcases photographs resulting from a three-month collaborative project between the social photography association Ri-scatti ODV and La Meridiana SCS, a social and healthcare cooperative. The project involved 11 residents, caregivers, volunteers, and family members, guided by photographers from Ri-Scatti, in documenting their experiences and relationships within this unique setting.

Dementia, encompassing conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, affects over 55 million people globally, with Italy alone accounting for more than one million cases. Alarmingly, projections suggest this number could triple by 2050. Alzheimer’s and related dementias currently represent the seventh leading cause of death worldwide, and carry a substantial economic burden, estimated at 23 billion euros annually in direct and indirect costs. Salute.it reports on these growing concerns.

“Paese Ritrovato” represents a shift in dementia care, moving away from traditional hospital-like institutions towards a more community-based approach. It’s designed not simply as a place of care, but as a functioning village with houses, squares, and shared spaces, aiming to preserve autonomy, dignity, and quality of life for its residents. The photographic project sought to capture the essence of this environment and the human connections within it.

The exhibition features a selection of over 50 photographs chosen from a collection of more than 7,000 images taken during the three-month laboratory. These images don’t attempt to explain the disease itself, but rather to portray the lived experience of those affected, focusing on everyday moments, fragile yet profound relationships, and the simple gestures of connection. The exhibit aims to offer a human space of presence, glances, and bonds.

The title, “Io sono qui” (I am here), speaks to a core challenge faced by individuals with Alzheimer’s disease: the difficulty in maintaining a sense of presence and continuity. As cognitive abilities decline, the ability to recognize loved ones and recall past experiences diminishes. In the present moment, a person with Alzheimer’s relies on physical presence – being seen, touched, and acknowledged – to affirm their existence. The act of photography, becomes a vital affirmation: a visual declaration of “I am here. This exists.”

The Osart Gallery exhibition is open to the public from Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM to 7:00 PM. On March 19th at 6:00 PM, the gallery will host a special event, “Poetry beyond words: a dialogue between music and voices from Il Paese Ritrovato,” curated by Paola Perfetti, a dramatherapist from Cooperativa La Meridiana.

This project highlights the growing recognition of the need for innovative approaches to dementia care. The Italian initiative, “Paese Ritrovato,” is the first Alzheimer’s village in Italy, and serves as a model for other communities seeking to create more supportive and dignified environments for individuals living with these conditions. Redazione Salute at La Repubblica covered the initial launch of this project.

Understanding the scale of the challenge is crucial. Globally, the number of people affected by dementia is rapidly increasing, placing a significant strain on healthcare systems and families. The Ministero della Salute (Italian Ministry of Health) is actively involved in addressing this issue through research, policy development, and support services. The Ministry’s website provides information on dementia care and resources for families and caregivers.

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, ongoing research is focused on developing new treatments to slow the progression of the disease and manage its symptoms. Efforts are also underway to improve early detection and diagnosis, which can allow individuals and families to plan for the future and access appropriate support. The exhibition “Io sono qui” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of human connection and compassionate care in the face of this challenging condition.

For those seeking more information about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, resources are available from organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association and the World Health Organization. It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment options.