September is World Alzheimer’s Month
September has been recognized as World Alzheimer’s Month since 2012, and the theme for 2026 is “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.” The campaign aims to unite communities worldwide in a powerful effort to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease, reduce stigma, and advocate for better support for families living with dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease represents approximately two-thirds of all dementia cases. While the risk of developing some form of dementia increases with age, memory loss is not a normal part of aging. Understanding the early symptoms of cognitive decline—such as short-term memory challenges, confusion, forgetting important information, and difficulty with familiar tasks—can be key to helping someone seek professional help. In fact, research has shown that the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can appear up to twelve years prior to an official diagnosis.
You don’t have to have dementia or know someone with the condition to get involved in raising awareness and dispelling myths around neurocognitive disorders. Global campaigns can inspire anyone to support families, friends, professionals, volunteers, and advocates, helping others understand the impact of dementia on millions of people around the world.
How can you participate in World Alzheimer’s Month?
- Attend and promote: Go to awareness events or educational programs, and share information through social media and conversations with friends.
- Invite a friend: Bring someone along to an event with you. Even if dementia does not personally touch your life, gaining awareness helps you share accurate information with others.
- Volunteer your time: Join programs that promote socialization and recreation. This is a meaningful way to help break the stigma of a dementia diagnosis, and it can be highly engaging and fun for you, too!
- Connect personally: If you know someone living with memory loss, give them a call, take them out to lunch, or visit them. Connect with their family to discover how you can stay involved, maintain the relationship, and improve the quality of life for everyone.
If you would like more information about our Memory Ministry, our Memory Cafe or Family and Friends Workshops, please contact Vicky at vpitner@firstumc.org.