Remembering With Love: How People Can Support Loved Ones With Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.

June Is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time dedicated to supporting all the people with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia, promoting brain health, and joining the fight. More than 55 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia worldwide, and two-thirds of Americans have at least one major potential risk factor for dementia. People with Alzheimer’s or dementia experience difficulty remembering, memory loss, trouble thinking, struggling to control their emotions, and/or isolation. With treatment and support, they will improve their memory skills and ability to manage their emotions and think casually. They will not be alone…. They will stay positive, calm, and comfortable. 

What’s the Difference between Alzheimer’s and Dementia? 

Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills that interferes with daily life. It is not a single disease but a group of symptoms that can be caused by different conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is a specific type of dementia and the most common cause of it. It usually develops gradually over time, affecting memory, communication, behavior, and the ability to complete everyday tasks. In simple terms, all people with Alzheimer’s have dementia, but not all people with dementia have Alzheimer’s disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia 

Common signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia include memory loss that starts to affect everyday life, getting confused about time or place, having trouble finishing familiar tasks, or struggling to find the right words when talking or writing. People may also notice changes in mood, personality, judgment, or behavior, like feeling more anxious, withdrawn, or easily frustrated. As the condition gets worse, it becomes harder to solve problems, recognize loved ones, or handle daily activities such as cooking, getting dressed, or managing money. While occasional forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging, ongoing memory or thinking problems should be checked out by a medical professional.

How to Spread Awareness and Join the Fight Against Alzheimer’s and Dementia? 

Spreading awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia starts with education, compassion, and support. People can help by learning the signs and symptoms, sharing accurate information, and encouraging open conversations about brain health and memory loss. Supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia through kindness, patience, and inclusion can make a meaningful difference in their lives.

There are also many ways to take action within the community. Individuals can participate in fundraising events, volunteer with organizations that support research and caregiving, advocate for improved healthcare resources, and use social media or local events to spread awareness. Every effort, big or small, contributes to greater understanding, stronger support systems, progress toward better treatments, and hope for a future cure. 

My Support for Alzheimer’s and Dementia 

I support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with love, compassion, and understanding. My maternal grandmother’s sister (my great aunt) passed away from Alzheimer’s disease when I was 5 years old, and she was the only family member in my family who had Alzheimer’s. Although I was very young, her memory continues to inspire me to spread awareness and support others facing these difficult conditions. I send my love, prayers, and encouragement to everyone living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, as well as to their families and caregivers who provide strength, patience, and care every day.

Resources and event details can be found via the Alzheimer's Association. 

Thank you for reading this blog post. Stay tuned!

With love, 

Marisa Conners 

Remote Blog Intern at CorMission