June marks Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. With over 6 million Americans currently living with Alzheimer’s, it’s more important than ever to understand the early signs and know where to find support and resources.
🧠 What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory, thinking skills, and eventually the ability to carry out simple tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia among older adults.
While some memory changes can be a normal part of aging, Alzheimer’s is not. Recognizing the early warning signs can make a significant difference in receiving the right care early on.
⚠️ 10 Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
Forgetting recently learned information or important dates repeatedly. - Challenges in planning or solving problems
Trouble following familiar recipes or managing monthly bills. - Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Struggling with routine activities, like driving to a regular location. - Confusion with time or place
Losing track of dates, seasons, or getting lost in familiar surroundings. - Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
Difficulty reading, judging distance, or recognizing contrast (which affects driving). - New problems with words in speaking or writing
Stopping mid-sentence or repeating themselves often in conversation. - Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
Putting items in unusual places and being unable to find them. - Decreased or poor judgment
Falling for scams or neglecting hygiene. - Withdrawal from work or social activities
Pulling away from hobbies, friends, or group activities. - Changes in mood and personality
Becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious.
📘 Trusted Resources for Support
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, know that you’re not alone. There are numerous organizations, tools, and professionals who can help.
National Resources:
- Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org)
24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900
Offers education, caregiver support, and local chapters for in-person help.
- National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Provides research-backed information on dementia and clinical trials.
- AARP’s Brain Health Resources
Guides on staying mentally sharp and managing cognitive changes.
Local Options:
- Memory care clinics or neurologists in your area.
- Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) for caregiver resources and community programs.
- Senior centers that offer memory cafes, workshops, or support groups.
🟣 How You Can Get Involved This Month
- Wear purple to show support and spark conversations.
- Share your story on social media to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
- Check in on loved ones—subtle signs are easier to notice when we’re present and connected.
- Make brain-healthy choices like staying active, eating well, and getting quality sleep.
Early detection matters. Alzheimer’s may not yet have a cure, but early diagnosis allows individuals and families to plan, access treatment, and maintain quality of life for as long as possible.
This June, let’s shine a light on brain health, honor those impacted, and make sure our aging community feels seen, supported, and informed.