Every year, the Alzheimer’s Association designates the month of June as “Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month,” a time to raise awareness about a disease that affects millions of Americans and their families, as well as to demonstrate solidarity and support for finding a way to end Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. LIAD is a strong supporter of this effort as we continue to provide services and support for patients and families living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Let’s talk about why this month is so important and how you can show your support.

Current Statistics to Know About

Why is it so important to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia? Let’s take a look at a few important numbers provided by the Alzheimer’s Association:

• About 6.5 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease. That number is expected to double by 2050. A new diagnosis of dementia in this country occurs about once every 65 seconds.
• About 1 in 9 seniors over age 65 have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
• About 2/3 of Alzheimer’s patients are women.
• Dementia hits minority populations disproportionately. Black people are twice as likely to develop dementia as white people; Hispanics are 1.5 times more likely.
• 11 million people act as unpaid caregivers for people living with dementia.

How You Can Help

The two main ways you can help the cause this month are by raising awareness and providing support. The following are some tangible ways you can do both:

• “Go purple.” Purple is the color used for Alzheimer’s awareness. Wearing purple clothing or purple ribbons and using the color purple on social media profiles are just a few ways you can spread the word during the month of June.
• Share on social media. If you have a friend or loved one living with Alzheimer’s, share your story on social media using the hashtag #ENDALZ. You can also simply post in solidarity using the same hashtag and purple colors.
• Volunteer. Many great organizations can use help fighting Alzheimer’s, whether it’s by caring for patients or spearheading fundraising efforts. Use the opportunity this month to find your own place in the cause.
• Donate. Make a special donation to the Alzheimer’s charity of your choice this month. June 21 (the summer solstice) is designated “The Longest Day,” and supporters are encouraged to donate specifically on that day.

The Long Island Alzheimer’s and Dementia Center continues to work to provide necessary support and improve quality of life for those in our area living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, along with their families and caregivers. We encourage you to join us in raising awareness during Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. To make a special donation to LIAD or to become a recurring supporter this month, click here.