The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading advocate for the 6.5 million Americans living with the most common form of dementia. June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. It also includes the day of the year with the most light.
The Longest Day is when we can illuminate the darkness surrounding Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. People all over the country will participate in fundraising efforts on June 21. This national push helps raise awareness and funds toward finding a cure for Alzheimer’s.
Pegasus Senior Living Provides Dementia Care
Connections is a data-based memory care program available in Pegasus Senior Living communities around the country. This program focuses on using neuroplasticity treatments to provide relief and purpose to seniors and their families.
“Pegasus Senior Living is proud to announce the grand opening of 6 new Connections programs in 2022. We see the need for these programs so please reach out to us if we can be of assistance in finding the right care for your loved one”. Daniel Leaf, Senior VP Operations.
Dr. Sandra Petersen’s Connections program supports people with dementia by:
- Engaging the Emotions: Using music, art, and dance as a tool for expression and communication.
- Encouraging Movement: Creating new neural networks in the brain through dementia-friendly exercises.
- Challenging the Brain: Playing word games, solving puzzles, and promoting life skills that keep the mind active.
- Supporting Socialization: Encouraging seniors to form new friendships through daily group activities, welcoming environments, and regular special events.
Our specialized caregivers offer residents individualized support and activities in a secure and calming environment.
In addition to engagement, loved ones receive:
- Licensed nurse oversight and dementia-trained caregiver support
- Bathing, dressing, and grooming assistance
- Medication management
- On-site physical rehabilitation
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Private or shared dementia-friendly apartments
We create close bonds with family members to provide activities and experiences tailored to their loved ones’ interests. These are the times when we can stand up to Alzheimer’s together and illuminate the darkness.
What are the warning signs of Alzheimer’s?
Over 55 million people live with dementia globally. Sixty to seventy percent of those affected have Alzheimer’s. According to the World Health Organization, “Dementia is currently the seventh leading cause of death among all diseases and one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people globally.”
Forgetfulness happens to everyone from time to time, but Alzheimer’s and dementia are not normal parts of aging. Most forms of dementia are progressive and occur in stages:
- Early: This stage may not register for most people. It includes forgetfulness with names and information, and focusing becomes difficult.
- Middle: Most people receive a dementia diagnosis during the middle stage. It’s typically the longest stage. Mood swings, confusion, and forgetting personal information are common. This period is when people will begin to need supervision and assistance.
- Late: Late-stage dementia requires 24-hour care. Communication and mobility loss worsens, and the immune system becomes more susceptible to infections.
Memory Loss
Memory loss is the greatest signifier of Alzheimer’s and most dementias. Preclinical Alzheimer’s can last for years before forgetfulness becomes a problem and a doctor can make a diagnosis.
Misnaming people and objects, asking the same questions, or repeating information could indicate cognitive decline due to dementia.
Early-stage dementia might result in a person getting lost coming home from work or misplacing their keys. Accomplishing tasks and paying attention might become difficult. Don’t delay making an appointment with your doctor if you or a loved one exhibits these symptoms.
Withdrawing From Social Situations
People exhibiting signs of Alzheimer’s may withdraw from work or family due to forgetfulness and trouble keeping up with conversations. They may also try to avoid family and friends because of fear people will notice their symptoms.
Changes in Vision
Vision changes can be a part of normal aging. People with dementia can have healthy eyes, but changes in the brain will affect how colors and spaces are perceived.
A person may be able to read without glasses, but Alzheimer’s can make recognizing the color of a stoplight difficult. Judging distance in traffic or walking upstairs can begin to be confusing.
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month
The easiest way to advocate for Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month is by sharing your story on social media. Use the hashtags #ENDALZ and #TheLongestDay on June 21–don’t forget to wear purple!
Register by yourself or enroll a team of participants in a fundraising event on the Alzheimer’s Association website. Some fundraising ideas include:
- Bake-sales or BBQs
- Bingo or casino night
- Karaoke party
- Multi-family garage sale
- Host a coin war at a local business
- Host art classes or an art sale
- Get sponsored to run a race or other physical challenges
If you are honoring a loved one with dementia, incorporate their favorite hobbies or passions into your fundraising and awareness campaign.
What is the Alzheimer’s awareness color?
Wearing purple is one way anyone can participate in raising awareness for people living with Alzheimer’s. The color also can illuminate the 11 million family members who act as dementia caregivers to their loved ones.
“Purple is our signature color, combining the calm stability of blue and the passionate energy of red,” says the Alzheimer’s Association. The calm yet passionate hue signifies that “we are strong and unrelenting in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.”
Raise Alzheimer’s Awareness and Find Dementia Care Near You
Contact a Pegasus Senior Living location near you to learn more about Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month and the Connections program. Discover local events and fundraising teams you can join.