National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, established by President Ronald Reagan in 1983, supports individuals affected by Alzheimer's and related dementias. This occasion explains the disease's various symptoms, risk factors, and treatments while debunking common myths and stigmas.
When we engage in the activities during this month, we educate ourselves and support those living with Alzheimer's while also helping caregivers.
Key Info: National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month
- When is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month?
Occurs annually throughout November - This Year (2026):
Sunday 1st - Monday 30th November 2026 -
Future Dates
- Monday 1st - Tuesday 30th November 2027
- Wednesday 1st - Thursday 30th November 2028
- Thursday 1st - Friday 30th November 2029
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Additional Details
- Observed By: Healthcare providers, caregivers, medical institutions, advocacy groups, and the general public across the United States
- Where Is It Observed: United States
- Primary Theme: Alzheimer's Disease Education and Awareness
- Hashtags: #NADAM #AlzheimersAwareness #EndAlz #AlzheimersMonth #AlzAwareness
Quick links: National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month
Why National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month Matters
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting cognitive functions like memory and thinking. Second to it in terms of prevalence is Parkinson's Disease.
First identified by Dr. Alois Alzheimer in 1906, it is the most common type of dementia, particularly among individuals aged 65 and older. The disease involves the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, disrupting cellular processes and causing cell death.
Enter National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. With medical advancements extending lifespans, more Alzheimer's cases may emerge, underscoring the need for continued research and awareness.
This disease has no cure; treatments slow progression and improve quality of life. Additionally, caregivers of Alzheimer's patients often face stress and financial strain. There is so much to discuss and tackle, and the month of November is a chance for everyone to do so.
Data and Statistics
Alzheimer's disease affects about 6.9 million Americans aged 65 and above. This figure could grow to 13.8 million by 2060.
Some demographics are more susceptible than others. Women account for two-thirds of the total number. Meanwhile, Older Black Americans are twice as likely to be diagnosed than older Whites.
Deaths from Alzheimer's have doubled between 2000 and 2021.
Almost half of caregivers in America who help elders are caring for those with Alzheimer's or other kinds of dementia.
In 2024 alone, the total healthcare cost for elders with dementia in the US is around $360 billion.
Signs To Look Out For
Once you notice the following signs on yourself or a family member, consult a doctor immediately:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life. Examples include forgetting important dates or events, asking for the same information repeatedly, or relying heavily on memory aids.
- Difficulty planning or solving problems, like following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills.
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships may lead to difficulty with balance or reading.
- Problems with speaking or writing, such as struggling with vocabulary, stopping in the middle of a conversation, or repeating themselves.
- Changes in mood or personality, including sudden bouts of confusion, suspicion, depression, fear, and anxiety.
Brief Timeline of National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month
US President Ronald Reagan designated November as National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month.
On September 21, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) launched World Alzheimer's Day.
The Alzheimer's Association started its first nationwide memory walk in the United States to raise awareness and funds.
The Alzheimer's Foundation of America celebrated the first National Memory Screening Day during Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month.
President Barack Obama signed the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) into law, providing a national framework for tackling the disease.
The World Health Organization released its first report on dementia.
The Alzheimer's Association launched the "Walk to End Alzheimer's," the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support, and research.
The World Health Organization published the Global Action Plan on the Public Health Response to Dementia.
The World Health Organization's second report on dementia called for a comprehensive and coordinated response to tackle this global health challenge.
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month Hashtags
Share facts and resources online using the following hashtags:
- #EndAlz
- #AlzheimersAwareness
- #AlzheimersinAmerica
- #GoPurple
- #AlzheimersWarrior
- #MemoryWalk
Conclusion
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, or National Alzheimer's Awareness Month, recognizes the experiences of people living with Alzheimer's, along with their (mostly) unpaid caregivers.
Let us work together to enlighten other people about its impact by promoting ongoing support and advocacy for research and improved care for healthy aging.
Resources:
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
This devastating disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior.
People 65 years old and above are at a higher risk for developing Alzheimer's, but the disease can also affect younger people.
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease. However, treatments can help manage symptoms. Moreover, early detection can help people get treatment sooner.
You can join events, donate to research organizations doing clinical trials of potential treatments, and educate others about dementia care.
These early signs include memory loss, difficulty completing familiar tasks, confusion with time or place, and changes in mood or personality.
Mike is a degree-qualified researcher and writer passionate about increasing global awareness about climate change and encouraging people to act collectively in resolving these issues.
Fact Checked By:
Isabela Sedano, BEng.
