Awareness Month Activities Shine Spotlight on Alzheimer’s, Dementia

Efforts are underway this month to focus attention on Alzheimer’s, a disease that, along with other forms of dementia, affects some 44 million people globally and is swiftly growing in prevalence.

During November in the U.S., Alzheimer’s Awareness Month observances include fundraisers, disseminating tips for healthy aging, downloadable Alzheimer’s information, “memory walks,” and information and resources for caregivers.

The Alzheimer’s Association reports that 5.8 million U.S. residents today live with Alzheimer’s, and this figure is projected to more than double to 14 million by 2050. Other statistics: About 5.3 million patients today are at least 65 years old, and roughly two-thirds of patients are women.

As the population ages, the disease will impact even greater numbers of people. Its prevalence among those age 65 and older is expected double every five years. Last year, Alzheimer’s and other dementias were expected to cost the U.S. $290 billion. By 2050, those costs could rise as high as $1.1 trillion.

For its part, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is offering supporters a shareable fact sheet about Alzheimer’s, a social media cover, tips for aging well, a commemorative bracelet, and a Facebook profile frame.

Supporters are also encouraged to take a photo of themselves in teal — the representative color of Alzheimer’s — and share it on social media, explaining why they’re joining the fight against the progressive neurodegenerative disease.

In addition, the foundation is promoting its free, confidential memory screenings this month. Go here to learn more about the test and how to get one. Supporters are also asked to share the organization’s help line.

Alzheimer’s community members may also organize and host fundraisers to benefit research and the foundation’s programs and services.

Elsewhere, CVS Health is again teaming up with the Alzheimer’s Association for an in-store fundraising campaign as part of a three-year $10-million commitment to the organization. This year’s campaign highlights the vulnerability of patients and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Organizations such as Alzheimer’s Tennessee is expressing its support of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and Unicity Healthcare offers information about how to learn more about the disease and how to show support this month.

Also, National Today is providing a timeline, information about Alzheimer’s, and ways to mark the annual observance, such as taking a “memory walk” to raise funds for research, and getting screened for possible memory loss.

The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation is also offering information about the disease, including clinical stages, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and research.