Honor for dementia researcher: Prof. Gräßel receives Federal Cross of Merit!

Honor for dementia researcher: Prof. Gräßel receives Federal Cross of Merit!

On June 30, 2025, Prof. Dr. Elmar Gräßel, head of the Center for Medical Services Research and the Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology at the University Hospital Erlangen, was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit on Ribbon. This honor was presented by Bavaria's Prime Minister Dr. Markus Söder presents and recognizes Gräßel's significant commitment to dementia research as well as his support for caring relatives.

Prof. Gräßel has been working in dementia and family research for 35 years and has developed an excellent reputation during this time. As a founding member of the German Alzheimer Society e. V. and has been chairman of the Alzheimer Society of Middle Franconia for 25 years. V. he has made a significant contribution to improving the care of people with dementia.

Pioneering work in dementia research

His life motto “Help where needed and wanted!” is reflected in his research direction. Prof. Gräßel has dedicated himself in particular to the prevention and development of non-drug therapies for dementia. A central project is the MAKS® therapy he developed. This innovative form of therapy combines motor, everyday practical, cognitive and social activities to improve the quality of life of people with dementia.

The effectiveness of MAKS® therapy has been proven in large-scale studies. It is already used in Germany, Mexico, China and Norway and has resulted in over 3,000 nurses in Germany being trained in how to use this therapy. The recognition of Gräßel's work is also reflected in the numerous awards he has received throughout his career, including the MSD Health Prize.

Urgent need for better care

However, demographic developments pose a challenge: the population in Germany is aging, which means the number of people with dementia is also increasing. Prof. Gräßel emphasizes that further efforts are needed to strengthen care for these people. The award of the Federal Cross of Merit is not only a personal honor, but also an appeal to society to take the needs of this vulnerable group into account.

Over a period of over three decades, Prof. Gräßel has not only focused on the topics of dementia and care for relatives, but has also developed concrete measures to improve living conditions. His work will continue to be of great importance to society in the future.

For more information about Prof. Gräßel's award and his research, you can FAU visit.

Additional information is likely on Medical Valley EMN be found.

How the topic of dementia affects society is also reflected in the Websites of the German Alzheimer Society treated in detail.