Each September, communities and organizations around the globe pause to recognize World Alzheimer’s Month. It’s a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases, and to remind individuals and families living with these conditions that they’re not navigating this journey alone.
More than six million Americans, and 55 million people around the world are living with Alzheimer’s today. Behind each of those figures are families adjusting to new challenges, caregivers stepping into unfamiliar roles, and loved ones working to hold onto connection in the face of change. Despite most people knowing someone who has been touched by dementia, it can still feel deeply isolating for those experiencing it. That’s why this month matters: it creates space for open conversations, sharing experiences, and for building understanding.
World Alzheimer’s Month also serves as an opportunity to break the stigma. Because alongside the challenges of the disease and awareness itself, stigma can be a big barrier to care. It may keep people from seeking a diagnosis or treatment, perpetuate myths about the disease, and leave both individuals and their families feeling isolated. Breaking that stigma starts with open conversation and compassion to help overcome misinformation.
The Alliance recently released a film series, Caring For A Loved One With Alzheimer’s Disease and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms, that focuses on six of the most common neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) of Alzheimer’s that families and caregivers face. NPS are the mood and emotional changes that can occur with Alzheimer’s and related dementias, but are highly stigmatized and sometimes dismissed as willful behavioral problems. Each film offers clear, compassionate guidance on each symptom to help family caregivers understand these symptoms and recognize when to ask for additional help.
Throughout September, organizations and advocates highlight stories and resources that shed light on the realities of dementia. One of these efforts is a short film called Check, Mate, created by Voices of Alzheimer’s, which captures the emotional toll and resilience that comes with the disease.
This World Alzheimer’s Month, help honor the millions of individuals and families that are affected by this disease by raising awareness through sharing resources like the ones above, shaking the stigma through conversations with friends and loved ones, and learning more about Alzheimer’s and related symptoms.
For more information on Alzheimer’s and neuropsychiatric symptoms of Alzheimer’s, learn more on the Alliance website.
Katrin Werner-Perez is the Director of Health Programs at the Alliance for Aging Research.
