June encourages awareness for Alzheimer’s,brain health
Today, more than seven million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s and two-thirds of Americans have at least one major potential risk factor for dementia, according to a report posted by the Alzheimer’s Association. As June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, this article aims to further educate and inform the public about the risks and early symptoms surrounding Alzheimer’s and dementia.
The Alzheimer’s Association, established in 1980, is a leading non-profit health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support, and research and affirms the highest impact worldwide. Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month was established by the association in 2014 to open discussions and further educate the public about the disease.
It is thought that the brain changes which cause Alzheimer’s can show up as early as 20 years before the onset of actual symptoms, giving an ample window of time to combat risk factors which could increase symptoms later on. Many Americans may write-off these early symptoms as normal age-related changes, but it is important for us to be aware of noticeable changes in behavior, like difficulty recalling new information, in ourselves and our loved ones. Alzheimer’s, by definition, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease which primarily affects the brain’s memory and thinking skills. It is characterized by the gradual destruction and death of nerve cells and the brain’s connections, causing memory loss, impaired judgment, and difficulty with daily tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for an estimated 60 percent to 80 percent of cases as recorded in the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2025 Facts and Figures report.
Some may be wondering what the difference is between Alzheimer’s and dementia. Dementia is an overall term for a particular group of symptoms like trouble with memory, language, problem-solving; difficulty concentrating, and struggling to understand and express thoughts. Many different conditions can cause dementia symptoms. Alzheimer’s disease, on the other hand, is merely one cause of dementia symptoms.
In short, people with dementia may not always have Alzheimer’s; but Alzheimer’s is always an example of dementia.
The association encourages Americans to take charge of their health, particularly when it comes to the brain, by creating healthier habits including, but not limited to: keeping your mind active—challenge yourself by picking up a new hobby or skill; continue learning—encourage youth to stay in school and pursue the highest level of training possible, and continue your own education by taking an online course or a class at your local library; get moving—daily movement, whether through gardening, dancing, or whatever gets you motivated, is vital to not just your brain health, but your overall health; being smokefree— quitting smoking can lower the risk of cognitive decline back to levels similar to those who have not smoked; sleeping well—minimize screen use before bedtime, make your sleep space comfortable, and do all you can to minimize disruptions. These habits and more can help reduce cognitive decline and improve overall health.
The public is encouraged to contact the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 helpline any day of the year, any time of day to seek professional help regarding topics like how to understand and respond to dementia-related behaviors, medical care needs including medications and treatment options, and managing caregiver stress. The help line number is 1-800-272-3900.