Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month shines a light on the millions of people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, as well as the families, friends, and caregivers who support them. The campaign raises awareness, encourages early understanding of symptoms, and promotes support for research, care, and ultimately a cure.
You’re Not Alone
Many of us know someone whose life has been touched by Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. One friend was recently diagnosed with Lewy body dementia (LBD), a brain disease that impairs thinking and mobility. This friend has chosen to focus on what matters most: enjoying time with loved ones, listening to music, cooking, and living each day with purpose. His outlook is a powerful reminder that, even in the face of a difficult diagnosis, people can continue to find meaning, connection, and joy.
What Is the Go Purple Challenge?
The Go Purple Challenge encourages people to wear purple throughout June to show solidarity with those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. It is a simple but visible way to raise awareness, start conversations, and show support for individuals, families, and caregivers.
Getting Involved
- Wear purple during June to show your support.
- Share information and personal stories to help raise awareness.
- Support organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association, Dementia Society of America, Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, and The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration.
- Volunteer, donate, or participate in local awareness and fundraising events.
What’s the Difference Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia?
Dementia is a general term for a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills that interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, but it is not the only one. Other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
Is Alzheimer’s Inevitable?
No. Although age is the greatest known risk factor, and genetics and one’s sex (being a woman) can also influence risk, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, so it is not inevitable. Research suggests that healthy habits, like regular physical activity, quality sleep, social connection, mental stimulation, and managing blood pressure and other health conditions, may help support brain health and reduce risk.
Common Signs of Alzheimer’s and Dementia
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion about time or place
- Trouble finding the right words or following conversations
- Poor judgment or changes in decision-making
- Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
- Changes in mood, personality, or behavior
- Withdrawal from work, hobbies, or social activities
People who experience any of these types of symptoms are encouraged to promptly visit their doctor to determine cause and gain treatment. Note that other health conditions may be responsible, so never attempt to self-diagnose or permit fear to keep you from getting the healthcare you deserve.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, but some people face a higher risk than others. As previously stated, the greatest known risk factor is age, especially after 65. Risk may also be higher for people with a family history of Alzheimer’s, certain genetic factors, a history of head injury, or health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, poor sleep, limited physical activity, and social isolation, may also play a role in cognitive decline.
What Causes Alzheimer’s?
Researchers do not yet know a single cause of Alzheimer’s. In most people, it appears to result from a complex mix of biological, genetic, environmental, and lifestyle influences. Some rare forms of early-onset Alzheimer’s are strongly linked to inherited genes, but most cases are not believed to be caused by one gene alone. Instead, age-related brain changes, overall health, and long-term exposures and habits may all contribute to when the disease begins and how it progresses.
Living With a Diagnosis and Holding Hope
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia changes life, but it does not erase a person’s identity, relationships, or ability to experience joy. Symptoms often progress gradually, beginning with mild memory or thinking changes and eventually affecting daily tasks, communication, and independence. Even so, support, routine, meaningful activities, and compassionate care can help people live with dignity and connection. There is also real reason for hope: researchers are improving early diagnosis, deepening understanding of the disease, and developing treatments that may slow decline for some people. Every advance strengthens the belief that we should continue supporting families, investing in research, and moving forward until better prevention, better care, and ultimately a cure are within reach.
Origins of Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month
Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month was established by the Alzheimer’s Association in 2014 to spark a broader global conversation about brain health, Alzheimer’s disease, and other dementias. The June campaign built on earlier awareness efforts, including National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in November, and created a dedicated time to encourage public education, advocacy, and visible support through activities such as wearing purple and sharing personal stories.
Why This Month Matters
For many Americans, this month is both a time of education and a time of solidarity. It helps families, caregivers, advocates, and communities feel seen while reminding the public that Alzheimer’s affects millions of lives. The month’s core goals are to raise awareness, encourage people to recognize warning signs early, promote habits that support brain health, reduce stigma, and inspire action through advocacy, volunteering, and community support.
Why Funding Counts
Funding plays a critical role in every part of the fight against Alzheimer’s. It supports research that helps scientists better understand how the disease begins and progresses, improves tools for earlier and more accurate diagnosis, and accelerates the development of treatments that may slow decline and improve quality of life. Funding also strengthens public education, caregiver resources, and prevention efforts by helping people learn about modifiable risk factors and brain-healthy habits. Most importantly, sustained investment is essential because the goal is not only to manage the disease more effectively, but to prevent it when possible and one day find a cure.
The Importance of Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month
Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month encourages conversations about brain health and supports the millions of individuals and families impacted. It also promotes early detection, better access to treatment, stronger support for patients and caregivers, and increased funding for a cure. By talking openly about brain health and sharing personal experiences, we can reduce stigma surrounding dementia and come together to support those affected.
Disclosure: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
