June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, an opportunity to recognize the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia that impact millions of people across the globe.
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disorder that reportedly affects over six million people in the U.S. ages 65 and older, according to Alzheimer’s News Today.
U.S. Rep. Colin Allred (D-Dallas) took to Twitter to voice support for those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.
“I know firsthand the challenges and struggles families face when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s,” Allred wrote in a June 2 Twitter post. “As we recognize #AlzheimersAwarenessMonth, I promise to keep fighting for resources to find a cure and support North Texans living with Alzheimer’s and their families.”
The Alzheimer’s Association encourages the public to wear purple and have conversations about caring for their brains throughout the month of June.
June 20 is the summer solstice and the date the Alzheimer’s Association will be conducting The Longest Day, a fundraiser to raise money in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Participants can contribute to the cause by taking part in activities including exercise, games, hobbies, sports, parties and arts.
“The Longest Day is the day with the most light — the summer solstice. On June 20, people from across the world will fight the darkness of Alzheimer’s through a fundraising activity of their choice,” the organization states on its website. “Whether you’re participating at home, online, or in person, we have plenty of fun ideas to engage family and friends in The Longest Day.”
According to data from the Alzheimer’s Association, close to 50 million people live with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia globally.
That figure is expected to increase to 76 million by the year 2030.
Visitors can donate directly to the Alzheimer’s Association here.