orld Alzheimer’s Month is an annual international event, that’s always held in September and is run by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI).
The aim of the month is to raise awareness and challenge the stigma that surrounds Alzheimer’s and dementia, and it has been running since 2012, with September 21st celebrated annually as World Alzheimer’s Day.
Globally, there is a poor understanding pertaining to dementia and Alzheimer’s, so, the work of World Alzheimer’s Month is vital in raising awareness and improving knowledge, as well as supporting those who’re suffering from the disease.
Here’s everything you need to know about World Alzheimer’s Month.
When is World Alzheimer’s Month and what is it?
World Alzheimer’s Month takes place every September, and is an opportunity for individuals, businesses, and charities to hold events and raise awareness in their communities for people who’re suffering from dementia.
Participants can get campaign materials for their event from ADI, and anyone unable to arrange their own event but keen to take part, can find events run by their National Alzheimer’s Charity and participate in those.
In the build-up to, and on the day, many Alzheimer’s and dementia associations around the world host memory walks, fundraisers, awareness-raising activities and campaigns to bring attention to those in their community that are affected by Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.
What is this year’s theme for World Alzheimer’s Month?
The theme for this year’s World Alzheimer’s Month is ‘Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s,’ which continues from the 2021 campaign, that focused on diagnosis, the warning signs of dementia, and the continued effect of Covid-19 on the global dementia community, and more.
In 2022, the campaign has a special focus on post-diagnosis support, following on from recent developments and potential breakthroughs in both dementia treatment and support.
The campaign aims to highlight the importance of support for people living with dementia, as well as for families following a diagnosis.
When is World Alzheimer’s Day?
World Alzheimer’s Day takes place during World Alzheimer’s Month and is on 21 September every year.
What is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly depletes memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. In most people with the disease — those with the late-onset type symptoms first appear in their mid-60s.
It is a degenerative brain condition that affects over 50 million people internationally and is a form of the disease dementia. Early-onset Alzheimer’s occurs between a person’s 30s and mid-60s, and is very rare.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia among older adults, occurring in 50-60 per cent of all dementia cases.
