As the global population undergoes a profound demographic shift toward an aging society, the quest to preserve cognitive function and physical vitality has moved to the forefront of medical science. On April 11, 2026, the medical community gathered at the Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital (KVGH) for a landmark event: “Smart Health & Brain Vitality — The 2026 Interdisciplinary Forum on Dementia Prevention and Anti-Aging Medicine.”
This high-profile forum, jointly organized by the World Association of Health, the Northern Medical Center (New York), and KVGH, served as a vital platform for international collaboration. By bridging Eastern clinical expertise with Western research innovation, the event offered a comprehensive roadmap to address the challenges of the “silver tsunami” through the integrated perspectives of neurology, geriatric medicine, biotechnology, nutrition, and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
A global alliance for longevity
The forum opened with powerful remarks from Dr. Chen Chin-Shun, Superintendent of KVGH, and Dr. Hong-Tai Chang, Chairman of the World Association of Health. They were joined by Dr. Chen Yanling, Director of International Cooperation at the Northern Medical Center, symbolizing a robust partnership between Taiwan and New York. The opening ceremony underscored a vital truth: dementia is not merely a clinical diagnosis but a societal challenge that requires a “smart” integration of resources across borders.
Redefining the aging narrative: Clinical insights
The morning sessions delved into the clinical complexities of cognitive decline. KVGH Vice Superintendent Lin Yu-Te and Director Ming-Yueh Chou provided a state-of-the-art overview of the current landscape in aging and cognitive decline and their treatment, emphasizing that early detection remains our most potent weapon. During the session, Director Chou also introduced the “Yubi-wakka” (finger-ring) test — a practical self-screening tool for sarcopenia and a useful predictor of disability and mortality.
A pivotal moment of the discussion focused on Physical Cognitive Decline Syndrome (PCDS) and its intersection with sarcopenia (muscle loss). KVGH Director Liang Zhiguang highlighted that approximately 34.4% of PCDS cases can be successfully reversed through integrated interventions, including physical and cognitive training, community engagement, chronic disease and metabolic management, and nutritional support.
The alchemy of prevention: Diet and tradition
Recognizing that medicine begins at the dinner table, Director Shih, Ping-Wen, and Director Xie Lanqi led a deep dive into anti-aging nutrition. Their presentation focused on specific dietary patterns — such as the Mediterranean and DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diets — tailored to the Asian context to combat inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
The afternoon session shifted toward a holistic “structural perspective” on dementia. Experts such as renowned Chinese medicine physician Dr. Lan Shizhe, together with former KVGH Director Dr. Qiu Zhentian, explored how structural alignment and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can contribute to longevity and healthy aging. This interdisciplinary dialogue illustrated how traditional insights into energy flow and physical balance can complement modern neurological approaches, fostering a more resilient and integrated model of aging.
Bridging science and industry
The forum was not limited to academic theory; it also spotlighted the tangible efforts of the biotechnology sector. Dr. Wu Qiyu, CEO of Botanicure Co., discussed the industry’s latest breakthroughs in addressing dementia, from novel biomarkers to neuroprotective supplements. He highlighted Taiwan’s competitive advantages — including high-quality research, strict GACP/GMP standards, and robust clinical environments — as key to accelerating the development of FDA-approved botanical solutions that improve cognitive function and quality of life.
Complementing these insights were two dedicated 30-minute “Product Sharing” sessions, during which participating companies introduced their featured products and demonstrated innovative health technologies and integrative solutions to support cognitive function and promote brain health in everyday life.
The forum extended beyond academic theory to highlight the tangible contributions of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, including on-site exhibits of TCM products, health products, assistive devices, and wellness accessories.
Conclusion: Advancing a shared vision for lifelong brain health
The true value of this forum lies in fostering meaningful dialogue across disciplines to develop more comprehensive and actionable solutions. As the forum concluded, Chairman Hong-Tai Chang expressed his hope that this platform would help raise public awareness of healthy aging and inspire individuals to embrace prevention as an integral part of daily life.
The success of the event was made possible by the strong support of a diverse group of co-sponsors, including Rotary International District 3510, the Orange County Taiwan Countrymen’s Association, and the Hudson Valley Asian American Chamber of Commerce. Their participation underscores that the fight against dementia is not only a medical challenge but also a shared mission requiring collective effort across the community.
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