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As (the lack of) summer gives way to the golden embrace of autumn, September arrives not only with a change in seasons but also with a profound focus on a matter of immense significance – World Alzheimer’s Month.
This annual observance, embraced by individuals, organisations, and communities across the UK, aims to elevate awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, extend support to those impacted, and bolster research and comprehension of this intricate and challenging condition.
In this blog I dig into the roots of World Alzheimer’s Month, explore the available aid and resources, and highlight the UK-based entities and websites playing a pivotal role in this cause.
A Historical Sojourn: The Genesis of World Alzheimer’s Month
The inception of World Alzheimer’s Month traces back to 1994 when Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) initiated the inaugural World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21st. This date was chosen to coincide with the day that Dr. Alois Alzheimer first identified Alzheimer’s disease in 1906. The primary goal was to amplify awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, and to counter the stigma and misconceptions often attached to them. Over time, this initiative broadened its horizons, leading to the establishment of World Alzheimer’s Month in September.
A Widening Concern: Grasping Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder predominantly affecting memory, cognition, and behaviour. It stands as the leading cause of dementia, an encompassing term for a range of symptoms linked to cognitive decline and functional impairment.
With the aging population continuing to expand, the impact of Alzheimer’s disease becomes increasingly palpable. During World Alzheimer’s Month, an array of activities and events are orchestrated to enlighten people about the disease, its manifestations, and its repercussions on both patients and caregivers.
Lending a Supportive Hand: Resources and Assistance
A multitude of organisations and websites extend invaluable resources and support to individuals impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. These platforms provide an array of services, ranging from educational materials and helplines to caregiver support groups and advocacy initiatives.
Some noteworthy resources include:
- Alzheimer’s Society: Rooted in the UK, this society offers a wealth of resources, including insights about the disease, caregiving counsel, support groups, and a 24/7 helpline.
- Dementia UK: This organisation provides Admiral Nurses who offer specialised support to families facing dementia, along with an array of informative resources.
- Dementia Friends: A creation of Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia Friends seeks to heighten understanding of dementia and encourage supportive actions within communities.
- Age UK: While encompassing various aspects of aging, Age UK offers resources, advice, and services for those impacted by dementia and their caregivers.
- MyLiferaft: This platform facilitates the centralisation of essential information for individuals with dementia and their caregivers, making it easier to manage care plans.
Driving Change: UK Entities Championing the Cause
In the crusade against Alzheimer’s disease, numerous UK-based companies and organisations play a pivotal role through research, advocacy, and innovative products.
Some notable contributors include:
- Alzheimer’s Research UK: This organisation is at the forefront of advancing research to understand, diagnose, and prevent dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
- Dementia Action Alliance: A coalition of organisations working to improve the lives of people living with dementia, promoting awareness and action.
- NHS England: The National Health Service provides essential guidance, resources, and support for individuals impacted by dementia, both patients and caregivers.
- Tide (Together in Dementia Everyday): This organisation focuses on supporting the needs and rights of carers and former carers of people with dementia.
- Join Dementia Research: An initiative connecting volunteers with researchers working on studies related to dementia, facilitating advancements in treatment and care
As the UK begins another World Alzheimer’s Month, it stands as a testament to our collective empathy and comprehension in confronting one of the most significant healthcare challenges of our era.
As we proudly wear purple ribbons and participate in events throughout September, let us acknowledge that our combined efforts, irrespective of their magnitude, contribute to a world where individuals grappling with Alzheimer’s disease are treated with the utmost respect, understanding, and empathy.
In conclusion, World Alzheimer’s Month serves as a poignant reminder of our capacity to unite and understand in the face of a substantial healthcare challenge. Through raising awareness, providing support, and advocating for ongoing research, we collectively strive for a future where Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are not insurmountable obstacles, but rather challenges that can be overcome with shared determination and unity.
And Finally…
If you have any comments on any part of this, advice / suggestions or questions that I may be able to assist you with, please feel free to contact me at pete@weareneurodiverse.com or add a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can 
Thank you & take care,
Pete
