By SARA ANDERSEN, CFNP
MANNM Los Alamos
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, affects more than 6 million Americans today. Without significant breakthroughs, that number is projected to more than double by 2050. Behind every statistic is a person: a grandparent, spouse, sibling, or friend slowly losing their memory, identity, and independence.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory and cognitive function. It begins long before symptoms appear, quietly damaging neurons in the brain. Over time, it affects thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform even the most routine tasks. While age is the greatest risk factor, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging.
Early signs can include:
- Difficulty remembering recent conversations or events
- Trouble completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Mood or personality changes
Why Awareness Matters
Despite its growing prevalence, Alzheimer’s is still widely misunderstood. Many families delay seeking help, dismissing early signs as “just getting older.” Brain Awareness Month is a call to action: to educate ourselves, support research, and reduce the stigma surrounding cognitive decline.
Awareness also means advocating for:
- Early diagnosis, which can lead to better planning and care
- Increased funding for scientific research
- Support services for caregivers, who often bear a heavy emotional and financial burden
Caring for Our Brains
While there is currently no cure, research shows that certain lifestyle choices may help protect brain health:
- Stay mentally active: Puzzles, reading, or learning new skills keep the brain engaged.
- Be physically active: Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain.
- Eat a balanced diet: The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, is associated with lower dementia risk.