The Comprehensive Psychostimulation Program, introduced in 1994, marked a shift in dementia care by moving beyond pharmaceutical interventions toward methods focused on socialization and maintaining patient independence. Developed by Mercè Boada Rovira, this strategy sought to re-educate those suffering from cognitive decline, establishing a new therapeutic framework within the Spanish medical system that prioritized the quality of life for both patients and their families.
Foundations in Neurology
Born in Barcelona in 1948, Mercè Boada Rovira pursued her academic training at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, where she obtained her doctorate in medicine. Her career has centered on the study of neurodegenerative conditions, with a primary emphasis on dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Her research contributions include investigations into signaling proteins, biomarkers, and the genetic and environmental factors that influence the progression of these disorders.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Institutional Development and Research
Boada began her systematic work on health planning for cognitive and behavioral disorders in Catalonia in 1986. Her involvement with public policy included acting as an expert advisor for the 1990 Comprehensive Plan for Older People in Catalonia and coordinating the Life in Years Program for the Catalan Health Service in 1991. In that same year, she launched the Alzheimer Centro Educacional, which served as the first non-pharmacological day center for dementia patients in Spain.
The ACE Foundation
In 1995, Boada co-founded the Fundación ACE alongside Lluís Tárraga. This private, non-profit organization focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cognitive decline and aging-related conditions. As medical director, Boada has overseen the facility's integration of clinical research and patient care. The foundation functions as a resource for primary care networks and maintains a specialized Day Care Unit to support its comprehensive care model.
Professional Recognition
Throughout her career, Boada has authored more than 150 articles and participated in over 100 clinical trials. Her professional leadership includes serving as the chair of the Catalan Neurology Society and contributing to the Valle de Hebrón University Hospital. She also served as the medical director of the Catalan Institute of Applied Neurosciences. Her contributions to medicine were formally acknowledged with the Josep Trueta Medal in 2012 and the Saint George's Cross in 2016.
Fast facts
- Born: 1948, Barcelona
- Citizenship: Spain
- Primary Field: Neurology
- Key Innovation: Comprehensive Psychostimulation Program (1994)
- Foundation Co-founded: Fundación ACE (1995)
- Award: Josep Trueta Medal (2012)
- Award: Saint George's Cross (2016)
- Academic Background: Doctorate, Autonomous University of Barcelona
Questions readers ask
What is the primary focus of the ACE Foundation?
The foundation focuses on research, early diagnosis, and treatment for patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
What was the significance of the Comprehensive Psychostimulation Program?
It provided a therapeutic strategy aimed at re-educating and socializing patients to promote their independence and improve quality of life.
Achievements
- Josep Trueta Medal — 2012
.jpg)