More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. Many people struggle with what to say and do when a family member, friend, co-worker or neighbor is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. This year during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Association revealed insights from those living with early-stage Alzheimer’s and other dementia on what they want others to know about living with disease. 

For Jerry Smith, 78, Middleton, Wis., he wants people to know the sudden change in how others communicate with someone recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another dementia is a frustrating experience for many living with the disease. “It’s upsetting to have others ask my wife how I am doing when I am sitting right there or nearby,” said Smith. “I want to be open and honest about my diagnosis. Talking around me only makes me feel more isolated and alone.”

Throughout Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, federal and state policymakers and our advocates throughout the nation took action to raise awareness and show support for those living with and caring for someone living with the disease. Thank you to Reps. Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-Calif.) and Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) for introducing a bipartisan resolution recognizing June as Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month.

As Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month comes to an end, take this opportunity to learn more about how you can raise awareness and get involved to help achieve our vision of a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Learn more. 

About Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

Established by the Alzheimer’s Association in 2014, Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month is dedicated to encouraging a global conversation about the brain and Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia. To learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association, available resources and how you can get involved to support the cause, visit alz.org.