World Alzheimer’s Month: Why Dementia Awareness Matters for Every Family
- Amy Shaw, PA
- Sep 1
- 2 min read
September is World Alzheimer’s Month—a time when the global community comes together to raise awareness about dementia, challenge stigma, and remind families that they are not alone on this journey. While Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, this month is about more than just one disease. It is about understanding the reality of dementia in all its forms, and why awareness matters for every family.
Why World Alzheimer’s Month Awareness Matters
Dementia does not arrive overnight. It unfolds slowly, through changes that can be easy to dismiss as “normal aging.” Missed appointments, misplaced items, forgotten words—on their own, these seem harmless. But together, they can signal the beginning of something bigger.
Awareness helps families:
Recognize symptoms early – The earlier dementia is understood, the earlier families can adjust, plan, and find support.
Reduce stigma – Talking openly about dementia removes shame and fear, allowing loved ones to be seen and supported as whole people.
Get help sooner – With the right knowledge, families are more likely to reach out for resources, medical evaluation, and caregiving support.
From Awareness to Action: A Better Dementia Caregiving Framework
Awareness is the first step, but families often ask me: “What do I do now?”
That is why I developed the Better Dementia Caregiving Framework, which I use to support families on their caregiving journey:
What is happening – Understanding dementia as a brain disease, not just forgetfulness.
When it happens – Recognizing where your loved one is in the journey, and what skills are fading.
Why it happens – Seeing the disease process clearly, so you do not blame your loved one—or yourself.
When you understand the what, when, and why, you can master the how of caregiving: how to communicate with compassion, how to adapt daily life, and how to preserve dignity.
A Global Effort with a Personal Impact
World Alzheimer’s Month is a reminder that dementia is not just a medical issue. It is a human issue—one that affects families, relationships, and communities worldwide. By raising awareness, we take a step toward making the world safer and more supportive for those living with dementia and their caregivers.
And for each family, awareness is the doorway to understanding. With knowledge, you are better equipped not only to face dementia but also to care with confidence.
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Amy Shaw, PA
Founder, Better Dementia
