How to Raise Awareness for Alzheimer's Disease

In the fight against Alzheimer's disease, awareness is key. As baby boomers age, it is expected that the number of people with the disease will triple by the year 2050. Though there is no cure yet, studies have shown that education, proper diagnosis and implementation of a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise can slow its progress.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Join the National Alzheimer Advocate Network, find out about volunteering and learn more about how to raise awareness at the Alzheimer's Association website.
2. Write congress to request increases in funding for Alzheimer's disease research. The Alzheimer's Association website has fill-in forms and contact information for each state's congress members.
3. Participate in a Memory Walk in your area to raise funds for fighting Alzheimer's. Find a local walk and learn about fundraising at the Alzheimer's Association website.
4. Learn about awareness events such as National Commemorative Candle Lighting at the Alzheimer's Foundation of America website.
5. Participate in national events such as Quilt to Remember. Buy or create a quilt panel, or find an exhibition in your area at the Alzheimer's Foundation of America website.
6. Promote annual events in your area such as National Memory Screening Day. Find screening sites, sign up for a screening, or register to hold a screening in your area by visiting the Alzheimer's Foundation of America website and clicking the "Memory Screening" tab.
7. Become involved in a local chapter of a national Alzheimer's organization at the Alzheimer's Association website.
8. Find local Alzheimer's organizations by visiting the Alzheimer's Foundation of America website. Click the "Members" tab or the link under "Reach Out for Care."
9. Organize a local chapter of a national organization, form your own awareness group or organize Alzheimer's projects in your area. Invite local doctors and caregivers to speak to your group, provide networking support to home caregivers and educate your community about Alzheimer's disease by establishing local Alzheimer's awareness events.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact local nursing homes and long-term care facilities in your area to find out what type of Alzheimer's education programs they offer.
• Find local fundraising events by visiting the Alzheimer's Association website and following the "Fundraising Events" link.