Follow and join the conversation with #WorldAlzheimersDay, #WAM2016, and #RememberMe.
Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States and the only cause of death among the top 10 in the United States that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed. There are more than 5 million people with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States and 35 million worldwide. These numbers are expected to skyrocket to as many as 16 million and 115 million people, respectively, by mid-century. In order to bring much needed attention to the disease, the United States along with the rest of the world, recognizes September as World Alzheimer’s Month and September 21st as World Alzheimer’s Day. In September, Alzheimer’s organizations around the world concentrate their efforts on raising awareness about Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Alzheimer’s Disease International
World Alzheimer’s Month is an initiative of Alzheimer’s Disease International (@AlzDisInt). Each year, ADI coordinates and organizes the World Alzheimer’s Month campaign. ADI is the umbrella organization of over 80 Alzheimer’s associations around the globe. ADI aims to help establish and strengthen Alzheimer associations throughout the world and to raise global awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and all other causes of dementia.
Get Involved
There are several ways you can participate in World Alzheimer’s Month and World Alzheimer’s Day. One of the easiest and most important things you can do is simply spread the word. There is a lot of misinformation and stigmatization around dementia, and September is a time for organizations and families to educate their communities. Visit the World Alzheimer’s Month website for templates and educational materials to inform others about the campaign.
Social media is a great way to get the word out quickly and easily to a number of people. The theme for this year’s World Alzheimer’s Month campaign is Remember Me. People all around the world are encouraged to remember loved ones who are living with dementia, or who may have passed away with a photo or a message along with the hashtag #RememberMe.
Consider making a donation to an Alzheimer’s organization. ADI relies on donations to carry out its work of strengthening Alzheimer associations worldwide and raising awareness about the global impact of dementia. By making a donation today you can make a real difference to people around the world coping with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Contacting your senators and representatives is a way to advocate for change and is easier than ever. Through the Alzheimer’s Association website you can sign a pledge or send a letter to your Congress member in a matter of minutes.
