World Alzheimer's Day

August 28, 2024

Each year, on 21 September, the globe observes World Alzheimer’s Day. Since 1994, this day has been an important event on the calendar as groups come together to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is a life-changing diagnosis, potentially causing memory loss, mood swings, disorientation and significant behavioural problems. Our understanding of the disease is still poor, and events such as World Alzheimer’s Day help to create more awareness and research around the issue.

Why was World Alzheimer's Day created?

World Alzheimer’s Day was created in Edinburgh in September 1994 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI). The ADI works to raise global awareness of Alzheimer’s and dementia, with the goal of affecting public policy for positive change.

In 2012, the decision was made to extend World Alzheimer’s Day to the full month of September. This change allows organisations and individuals to have more time to run fundraisers and awareness campaigns for longer.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease

World Alzheimer’s Day is an excellent opportunity to learn how to care for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease. Trilogy Care’s expert clinical team has put together several tips to support carers.

Understand the disease

Educate yourself: Learn about Alzheimer’s disease and how it affects memory, behaviour, and thinking. Understanding the progression of the disease can help you anticipate changes and respond effectively.
Know the symptoms: Familiarize yourself with common symptoms, including memory loss, confusion, and changes in behaviour.

Create a safe environment

Modify the home: Remove tripping hazards, install handrails, and use locks or alarms on doors if wandering is a concern.
Organise and simplify: Keep the living space uncluttered and use labels and signs to help with orientation.

Establish routines

Consistency: Stick to a daily routine to provide a sense of stability and predictability.
Simplify tasks: Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid frustration.

Communicate effectively

Use simple language: Speak slowly and clearly, using short sentences.
Non-verbal cues: Pay attention to body language and facial expressions. Gentle touch and eye contact can be comforting.
Patience: Allow extra time for responses and avoid interrupting.

Encourage engagement

Activities: Engage in activities that the person enjoys and can still participate in, such as gardening, listening to music, or simple crafts.
Social interaction: Maintain social connections with friends and family to help reduce feelings of isolation.

Provide emotional support

Empathy: Validate their feelings and reassure them. Confusion and frustration are common, and acknowledging their emotions can be soothing.
Reassurance: Offer comfort and encouragement, especially during moments of distress.

Monitor health

Regular check-ups: Ensure they receive regular medical care and manage any other health conditions.
Medication management: Keep track of medications, dosages, and schedules. Consult with healthcare providers about any side effects or changes in symptoms.

Take care of yourself

Self-care: Caregiving can be demanding, so make sure to take time for your own physical and emotional well-being.
Seek support: Join support groups for caregivers or seek counselling to share experiences and gain advice.

Plan for the future

Legal and financial planning: Address legal and financial matters early, including power of attorney and long-term care options.
Consider professional help: As the disease progresses, professional caregivers or adult day services might become necessary.

Be flexible

Adapt to changes: Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, so be prepared to adjust care strategies as the disease evolves.
Stay positive: Focus on the person’s strengths and abilities and celebrate small victories.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s requires patience, compassion, and flexibility. Remember, you’re not alone—there are resources and support available to help you navigate this challenging journey.

What is the theme for World Alzheimer’s Month 2024?

In 2024, the theme for World Alzheimer’s Month is ‘Time to Act on Dementia, Time to Act on Alzheimer’s’. Organised by ADI, the theme highlights the specific issues that people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia regularly experience.

This campaign aims to focus on ‘attitudes toward dementia and seeks to challenge the stigma and discrimination which still exists around the disease while highlighting the positive steps being undertaken by organisations and governments globally to develop a more dementia-friendly society.’

What can I do to show support?

The primary goal of World Alzheimer’s Day and World Alzheimer’s Month is to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. As the understanding of Alzheimer’s disease is quite poor, these global events are crucial for driving research on the topic.

There are many ways to get involved in World Alzheimer’s Day, whether you wish to attend an event or help spread awareness. Ways to show your support include: