Every November, National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month gives us a chance to pause and think about the millions of families living with this disease. President Ronald Reagan first designated the observance in 1983. More than four decades later, the need for awareness, and for compassion, is greater than ever.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, an estimated 7.4 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s. That’s about 1 in 9 older adults. Behind nearly every one of those numbers is a family member, friend, or neighbor quietly stepping in to help.
This post is for them.
The People Behind the Care
The Alzheimer’s Association reports that nearly 13 million Americans provide unpaid care for someone living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Together, they give billions of hours of care every year. About two-thirds of these caregivers are women, and many are adult daughters. Roughly a quarter are “sandwich generation” caregivers, looking after an aging parent while also raising children.
It’s a labor of love, but it’s also hard. In the Association’s research, 59% of dementia caregivers report high or very high emotional stress. Many put their own health on hold, skip their own doctor visits, and lose touch with friends.
If that sounds familiar, please hear this: needing help doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human.
Ways to Support Alzheimer’s Caregivers
Whether you’re a caregiver yourself or you love someone who is, here are a few meaningful ways to help.
-
- Offer specific help. “Let me know if you need anything” is kind, but it’s hard to accept. Try “Can I sit with your mom Tuesday afternoon so you can run errands?” instead.
- Share the load. Families can divide tasks like appointments, bill paying, meals, and visits so no one person carries everything.
- Encourage breaks. Even a short walk, a coffee with a friend, or a quiet hour alone can help a caregiver recharge.
- Learn together. Understanding how Alzheimer’s progresses helps everyone respond with more patience and less frustration.
- Use free resources. The Alzheimer’s Association runs a free 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900. Dementia experts offer support, local resources, and guidance day or night.
- Look ahead. Talking early about care options, finances, and wishes makes future decisions easier for everyone.
Caring for Your Own Brain Health
Awareness isn’t only about the people living with Alzheimer’s today. It’s also about taking care of our own brains as we age.
In a survey by the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly all Americans said brain health matters as much as physical health. Yet only 9% said they know a lot about how to maintain it. The good news is that research points to everyday habits that support brain health over time:
-
- Staying physically active
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing blood pressure
- Doing mentally stimulating activities like reading, puzzles, or learning something new
- Staying socially connected
The Association’s U.S. POINTER study found that combining several healthy habits can help protect cognitive function. In other words, small steps work best together. A walk with a friend, a game night, or a cooking class covers more than one habit at a time.
It’s also worth talking with your doctor about brain health during routine visits. According to the same survey, most adults would welcome that conversation, but only 14% have actually had it.
How GLSC Supports Families
At GLSC, we know that Alzheimer’s affects the whole family, not just one person. As a senior living community, we focus on what makes each day meaningful: familiar routines, engaging activities, nutritious meals, and genuine friendship. Our team takes the time to get to know each resident’s story, preferences, and personality.
For families, that can mean something precious: the chance to be a son, daughter, or spouse again, rather than a full-time caregiver.
If you’re caring for someone you love and wondering what support might look like, we’re here to listen. Contact us or schedule a visit anytime.
Sources
- Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, Alzheimer’s Association (2026 report)
- Brain Health in America special report, Alzheimer’s Association (PDF)
- 24/7 Helpline, Alzheimer’s Association
- National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month history, BHS (Reagan’s 1983 designation)