How to Honor Your Loved One During World Alzheimer’s Month
Every September, countries around the world band together to observe World Alzheimer’s Month. This annual campaign, which began in 2012, is specifically for the purpose of raising awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias, as well as fighting the stigma associated with diseases.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in 10 people aged 65 and older (10%) has Alzheimer’s dementia. That means almost everyone has been affected by this disease in some shape or fashion. Whether you have a loved one who has passed on from the disease, or they are currently traveling their dementia journey, there are many ways you can honor him or her during the month of September. Here are a few ideas.
Raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease.
September is the perfect month to use your social media profiles and other circles of influence to help others become better informed about Alzheimer’s disease. Sharing signs to watch for and urging the importance of an early diagnosis can help others who may have loved ones they’re worried about. Many people are uninformed about the basics of the disease, and shedding light using credible resources can help clarify and chase away the stigma and fear associated with this disease. You may also consider organizing an educational event. Consider holding a lunch and learn at your work (it can even be virtual), or talk to your local library about using one of their public meeting rooms. If you’re a member of a club or organization, see about bringing in a speaker or two.
Spread the word at work.
Many people choose to wear purple on September 21 in honor of World Alzheimer’s Day (the culmination of World Alzheimer’s Month, although educational events continue throughout the year). Speak with your employer to see if you could organize a “Purple Pride” day where everyone wears something purple. If you’re an employer yourself, consider joining the Alzheimer’s Workplace Alliance, an organization of nearly 2,000 companies dedicated to raising dementia awareness and improving work/life balance for family caregivers.
Become an advocate for Alzheimer’s research.
While there is no cure yet for Alzheimer’s, there is hope. Contact your Congressional representatives, launch petitions and form a fundraising effort so that medical scientists can continue to make breakthroughs and eventually find a cure for this disease.
Join your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter.
Local chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association are a great resource for those who are affected by dementias like Alzheimer’s disease. They bring families together, connect to support and resources and form a tribe of like-minded individuals to share stories, give advice and support each other in every way possible. Local chapters also often organize different events throughout the year, such as:
- Lobby days at offices of elected officials
- Fundraising walks
- Educational/awareness events
- Conferences for professionals and the public
World Alzheimer’s Month is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness for a disease that so many live with each and every day. The more we educate and share those around us, the more we will break down the stigma surrounding ALzheimer’s disease and make the world a better place for those living with it and their families.
Throughout our many years of providing loving care to our residents, Avalon Memory Care has been given multiple recognitions for our unique model of Alzheimer’s support. Take a tour of our memory care homes in Dallas, Arlington and Houston, and find out for yourself why so many families have chosen us. You can reach us at (469) 382-1899.
