Dr Orla Galvin
Executive Director, European Federation of Neurological Associations (EFNA)
Empowering neurology patients and caregivers to live optimally is facilitated by an understanding and harnessing of the value of a brain-positive economy.
The societal and economic impact of living with a neurological condition is vast. For those in the neurology community, the profound impact of both visible and invisible aspects of living with a neurological condition on employment and financial stability is all too familiar.
Challenges facing the neurology patient community
Beyond the symptoms, individuals and families grapple with numerous challenges, including access to healthcare. EFNA’s 2022 report ‘Socioeconomic Impact of Neurological Conditions’ reports the following.
- 69% of people miss days off work
- 76% experienced a negative impact on relationships with colleagues
- 83% experienced a negative impact on their finances
- 85% experienced a negative impact on their relationship with friends
- 86% experienced a negative impact on their relationship with family
- 94% experience a negative impact on their social life
- 99% experience a negative impact on their overall wellbeing
Brain capital opportunity
Under the umbrella of ‘brain capital’ neurology, patient advocates, patient organisations, individual patients and caregivers can advocate and influence change — not only in themselves but also to support research and innovation, access to therapeutics, services and supports.
Brain capital can ultimately improve the quality of life of those affected (patients and caregivers). This, in turn, serves as a foundation for benefits to healthcare systems and the employment sector.
99% experience a negative impact on their overall wellbeing.
A brain-positive economy
Brain capital prioritises brain skills and brain health — both of which are increasingly valuable in our innovation and knowledge-driven, post-covid economies. With advances in the AI and technologies sector, adaptation and development of brain skills are critical to preserving human employment and regional income (Eyre et al, 2021; Cell Press; NeuroView, Building brain capital).
What do we mean by brain skills?
Brain skills are not elusive but must be fostered and strengthened critically and strategically. Many individuals facing the challenges of living with a neurological condition are not only surviving but also striving to thrive.
Necessity drives them to navigate life with brain skills such as resilience, innovation, imagination, improvisation, critical and analytical thinking, communication, curiosity, creativity, exploration, goal engagement, systems thinking, motivation and opportunity recognition.
Brain skills such as compassion, altruism, emotional intelligence, mindfulness and self-control also manifest in caregivers of individuals with a chronic neurological condition. Seize the opportunity — you own your brain capital.
