World Alzheimer's Day: Ask About Dementia. Ask About Alzheimer’s

World Alzheimer’s Day is observed annually on September 21 to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, conditions that affect millions of people worldwide.

This year’s theme “Ask About Dementia. Ask About Alzheimer’s” reminds us that knowledge begins with a question. It is a call to dismantle silence and uncertainty, because every question asked brings us closer to awareness, empathy, and better care.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out everyday tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia. It affects memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to carry out everyday activities.

Symptoms

· Memory loss

· Difficulty planning, problem-solving, or completing familiar tasks

· Confusion with time or place

· Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

· Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

· Changes in mood, personality, or withdrawal from social activities

Myths & Facts

Myth: Only older people get Alzheimer’s.

Fact: Although age is the greatest risk factor, younger-onset Alzheimer’s can occur in people under 65.

Myth: Nothing can be done once diagnosed.

Fact: While there is no cure, treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and support can slow progression and improve quality of life.

Myth: Alzheimer’s only affects memory.

Fact: It also impacts thinking, judgment, mood, communication, and the ability to function independently.

Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s

1. Increasing age

2. Family history and genetics

3. Cardiovascular conditions (hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol)

4. Traumatic brain injury

5. Poor sleep and chronic stress

6. Sedentary lifestyle and poor diet

Management and Support

· Medications

· Therapy and Care Approaches

· Lifestyle Strategies

· Caregiver Support

· Community Resources

Take Action

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 is a reminder that asking the right questions can change lives. By asking about dementia and Alzheimer’s, we empower ourselves and others with understanding, compassion, and support.

Together, let us foster a world where no one feels silenced or isolated by Alzheimer’s, because every voice and every story matters.