June marks Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time when the Alzheimer’s Association® urges Americans to focus on their brain health. With nearly 7 million Americans currently living with Alzheimer’s, the disease remains a significant health challenge. Statistics reveal that the lifetime risk for Alzheimer’s at age 45 is 1 in 5 for women and 1 in 10 for men.
Research indicates that the brain changes leading to Alzheimer’s can begin 20 years or more before symptoms appear, suggesting a substantial window for intervention. Experts believe Alzheimer’s disease arises from multiple factors, with advancing age being the most significant known risk factor. Although some risk factors, like age, are unchangeable, others, such as physical activity, smoking habits, education, mental challenges, blood pressure, and diet, can be modified to potentially reduce risk.
As many as 40% of dementia cases globally may be attributable to modifiable risk factors. Based on growing scientific evidence, the Alzheimer’s Association recommends adopting 10 healthy habits to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and possibly dementia.
Early Detection and Proactive Measures
Understanding and recognizing early warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementias is crucial. Early detection and diagnosis offer the best opportunities for care, management, and treatment, giving diagnosed individuals more time to plan for their future, participate in clinical trials, and maintain a higher quality of life for as long as possible.
There are treatments available that can slow disease progression in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, underscoring the importance of timely diagnosis. Individuals experiencing memory or cognitive issues are encouraged to consult a doctor to make informed decisions about potential treatments.
Join the Fight Against Alzheimer’s
During Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Association invites everyone to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Here are several ways to get involved:
- Adopt the 10 Healthy Habits: It’s never too early or too late to take positive actions for your brain. Learn more at alz.org/healthyhabits.
- Go Purple: On June 1 and throughout the month, wear purple — the color of the Alzheimer’s movement — to raise awareness. Share your story on social media using the hashtag #ENDALZ.
- Participate in Fundraising Events: Join events like the Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, The Longest Day®, and Ride to End ALZ® to support the Alzheimer’s Association’s efforts in care, support, and research. Visit alz.org/fundraisingevents.
- Volunteer: Help your community recognize dementia signs and reduce risk factors by volunteering with the Alzheimer’s Association. Learn more at alz.org/volunteer.
- Advocate: Support the BOLD Reauthorization Act to enhance the dementia public health infrastructure nationwide. Visit alzimpact.org/BOLD_Reauthorization.
- Accelerate Research: The Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch® service connects those living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, and healthy volunteers to clinical trials. Find out more at alz.org/trialmatch.
- Donate: Support the Alzheimer’s Association in empowering people at all life stages to take charge of their brain health. Make a donation at alz.org/donate.
The Alzheimer’s Association continues to partner with organizations nationwide to fight against Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To learn more about Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, visit alz.org/abam.
