Observances
Alzheimer's and Dementia Observances
Health observances help raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. These events:
- Share educational information
- Reduce stigma by encouraging open conversations about dementia
- Help motivate people to seek early diagnosis and support
How to Get Involved
Your participation helps build a stronger, supportive community for those living with dementia and their loved ones. Here are a few ways to get involved:
- Follow IHS on social media to stay updated on events and resources
- Share posts and materials with your networks to spread awareness
- Join online conversations
- Host local education sessions, join advocacy campaigns, or organize community activities
Key Observances
Here are some of the observances we participate in each year. These events highlight important themes such as brain health, caregiving, and early detection.
February
American Heart Month
- Explores how heart health impacts brain function and reduces the risk of dementia
- Highlights shared risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes
- Promotes lifestyle changes to support both heart and brain health
The International Association for Indigenous Aging has updated flyers about dementia risk reduction intended for American Indians and Alaska Natives.
March
- Focuses on increasing public awareness about brain health and related research
- Features educational talks, interactive exhibits, and community events
- Engages people in learning about the brain and how to maintain its health
Every March, Brain Awareness Week is a global campaign. The Dana Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides many resources and support for the advance of neuroscience.
May
- Celebrates the contributions and achievements of older adults in our communities
- Highlights important issues like health, financial security, and caregiving
- Promotes older adults' well-being and independence through events and activities
Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM).
June
- Educates the public about brain health and reducing stigma related to dementia
- Encourages early detection and diagnosis through awareness campaigns
- Supports research efforts and promotes proactive brain health measures
The Alzheimer's Association website offers ways to promote brain health and join the fight against Alzheimer's and dementia-related diseases.
- Raises awareness about the abuse and neglect of older adults
- Highlights the need for recognition and prevention of elder abuse
- Includes educational events, advocacy efforts, and community outreach
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a day set to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older people.
Resources are available for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a day set to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older people.
July
- Highlights the mental health issues and unique challenges affecting minority communities
- Encourages culturally competent care to meet the needs of various populations
- Aims to improve understanding and mental health support for all racial and ethnic groups
September
- Focuses on preventing falls, particularly among older adults
- Promotes activities like balance exercises, home safety modifications, and health check-ups
- Seeks to reduce falls and related injuries by sharing educational resources
The National Council on Aging connects the public with tools and resources to improve older adults' lives.
- Raises awareness about Alzheimer's disease and other dementias
- Promotes greater understanding, early detection, and caregiver support
- Reduces stigma through activities and campaigns that share valuable resources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is the nation's leading science-based, data-driven service organization. Its website has many Alzheimer's and dementia-related resources available to the public.
October
- Highlights the importance of planning for end-of-life care
- Encourages accessible and compassionate care for people with serious illnesses and their families
- Provides education on pain management, the importance of emotional support, and improving the quality of life during end-of-life care
The Worldwide Hospice Palliative Care Alliance (WHPCA) is an international non-governmental organization focusing on hospice and palliative care development worldwide. Review downloadable WHPCA resources.
November
- Honors family caregivers and highlights the critical role they play
- Raises awareness about caregiver needs
- Encourages participation through sharing resources and hosting local events
The National Council on Aging provides resources, tools, and best practices.
The Administration for Community Living also shares caregiver resources.
