Time to Act
Since 2012, September has been recognized as World Alzheimer’ month. The theme for 2024 is “Time to Act on Dementia, Time to Act on Alzheimer’s.” This global awareness campaign focuses on addressing the attitudes, stigma, and discrimination for those living with some form of dementia and their friends and family.
Alzheimer’s disease represents approximately a third of all dementia’s. The risk of developing some form of dementia increases with age, however, 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 in helping someone seek professional help. Research has shown the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can appear 12 years prior to an official diagnosis.
You don’t have to have dementia or know someone with dementia to get involved in creating awareness and dispelling myths around neurocognitive disorders such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Global campaigns can inspire anyone to support the families, friends, professionals, volunteers, and advocates and help others understand the impact of dementia on so many people around the world.
How can you participate in World Alzheimer’s month?
- Attend awareness events, educational programs, and promote awareness through social media and conversations with friends.
- Invite a friend to attend an event with you. Even if dementia is not personally touching your life, gaining awareness may be helpful in sharing accurate information.
- Volunteer in programs that promote socialization and recreation! Not only is this a meaningful contribution to help break the stigma a dementia diagnosis can bring, and can be fun and engaging for you!
- If you personally know someone living with memory loss, give the person a call, take the person out to lunch or offer to visit. Connect with the family and discover how you can stay involved and maintain the relationship and improve 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.