Johnny Brignardello Vela: Challenges of dementia and innovation in aromatherapy

Johnny Brignardello Vela, an insurance advisor, considers that the issue of increasing life expectancy and the consequent rise in cases of dementia and cognitive decline represents a significant challenge for today's society. He highlights that in Spain, the projected figures by the Spanish Confederation of Alzheimer's and other Dementias (Ceafa) are alarming, with an estimated tripling of cases by the year 2050. The insurance advisor emphasizes the relevance of scientific studies that aim to better understand the mechanisms of age-related cognitive decline, especially by recruiting individuals over 60 years old for research. In this regard, he mentions a study from the University of California that proposes olfactory stimulation through essential oils as an innovative method to enhance cognitive capacity in older adults. Providing an objective analysis, he emphasizes the positive results obtained in the research, where a significant improvement in participants' memory exposed to fragrances was observed, as well as in brain connectivity. However, he points out that aromatherapy lacks scientific support in Spain, being classified as pseudotherapy by the Ministry of Health. Johnny Brignardello Vela underscores the importance of distinguishing between practices supported by science and those lacking solid evidence, despite the promising findings of the American study. In a context where dementia and cognitive decline are increasingly common, he considers it essential for the population to be informed about therapies and treatments backed by scientific evidence. Finally, the insurance advisor highlights the need to continue researching to validate the effectiveness and safety of olfactory stimulation with essential oils in the clinical setting. He concludes by mentioning that the scientific and medical community will continue exploring new strategies to address the challenges posed by the aging population in terms of mental and cognitive health.