New studies increasingly suggest a link between headers in football and the later development of dementia. In Flanders, families of ex-soccer players share their concerns and experiences, while scientific studies scrutinise the risks.
While studies show that former footballers are at higher risk of dementia, direct evidence that headlines are the cause remains challenging to establish. Testimonies from family members like Diane Vandeweyer fuel the debate about the possible consequences of long-term exposure to ball impact.
Staf Vanhoudt, once a celebrated headed defender, suffered from dementia and is the subject of discussion on the impact of headers. His wife Diane shares their story, from the early signs to the heartbreaking deterioration, and advocates for more awareness and preventive measures.
Diane Vandeweyer stresses the importance of brain protection, especially in sports where physical contact is not uncommon. Despite the acceptance that heading is part of football, she calls for more awareness and preventive actions to protect players' brain health.
Pierre Savelkoul, also a former footballer, suffered from dementia and aphasia. His family shares their story, from the first symptoms to the painful deterioration, and the inevitable confrontation with the fact that football may have played a role in his illness.