World Alzheimer's Day

Joan Agie
Dec 22, 2023 By Joan Agie
Originally Published on Mar 15, 2022
Fact-checked by Amanpreet Kaur
World Alzheimer's Day is important in spreading awareness of this condition.

Where is World Alzheimer's Day observed?

This day is observed worldwide.

Who is World Alzheimer's Day observed by?

Everyone can observe this day, including patients, health organizations, caregivers, family members, and everyone else in society. Knowing about the disease is the first step to early diagnosis and care.

When did World Alzheimer's Day first start?

This tradition was first started back in 1994.

Who started World Alzheimer's Day?

The Alzheimer Disease International (ADI) society first announced this day in 1994 at a conference held in Scotland.

History And Timeline

Raising awareness about this disease is the key to dealing with this condition that impacts quality of life.

First Patient Was Diagnosed

A German psychiatrist, Alois Alzheimer, diagnosed this condition in a 50-year-old woman for the first time.

1901

Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) Founded

ADI was formed to make people aware of this disease.

1984

First Alzheimer's Day Observed

On the 10th anniversary of the founding of ADI, the organization inaugurated this day.

1994

First World Alzheimer Report Published

These reports have since been published every year on this day.

2009

World Alzheimer's Month Observed

September was declared as World Alzheimer's Month.

2012

Traditions And Customs

The color purple marks this day. People wear purple bracelets or ribbons and, in some countries, prominent buildings are lit up in purple to represent this disease and spread awareness about the condition.

Many people take to the streets for charity walks to raise awareness, and also money for research into the disease.

Ways To Observe World Alzheimer's Day

 You can observe this day by wearing a purple ribbon or bracelet. You can also donate to the Alzheimer's Association or ADI or participate in volunteering activities.

Facts And Stats

This day is significant because Alzheimer's disease affects an estimated 44 million people worldwide and more than five million people in America.

Early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is difficult. Most people living with Alzheimer's disease are above 65 years of age. There is no single test to diagnose this disease and, unfortunately, there is no cure. That's why this day tries to raise concerns about this disease.

Dementia cases are witnessing a sharp rise in the U.S. and the cure is yet to be found. This national day encourages people to talk about dementia. 

What day is National Alzheimer's Day?

September 21, 2022.

Why is September 21 observed as Alzheimer's Day?

The ADI announced this day as World Alzheimer's Day at its annual conference in Edinburgh in 1994.

Is there an Alzheimer's Awareness Day?

September 21.

What is the theme of World Alzheimer's Day 2021?

Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s.

How is World Alzheimer's Day observed?

Purple is the color of Alzheimer's, so people wear purple bracelets or ribbons. In some places, buildings are lit purple. There are seminars, public events, and walks organized by health organizations to make people aware of Alzheimer's disease.

Why is World Alzheimer's Day important?

According to recent reports, 50 million people suffer from the disease worldwide. Hence, knowledge about this condition among the public is essential, raising funds for research and studies.

When is Alzheimer's Week?

September is observed as Alzheimer's Month. Dementia Action Week is observed from May 16 - 22.

Why is purple the color of Alzheimer's?

Blue and red combine to form purple. Blue symbolizes stability and red symbolizes energy.

What's the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia?

Mental decline that occurs due to age is referred to as dementia. Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia with memory loss characteristic symptoms.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Monday, September 21, 2020
  • Tuesday, September 21, 2021
  • Wednesday, September 21, 2022
  • Thursday, September 21, 2023
  • Saturday, September 21, 2024

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Written by Joan Agie

Bachelor of Science specializing in Human Anatomy

Joan Agie picture

Joan AgieBachelor of Science specializing in Human Anatomy

With 3+ years of research and content writing experience across several niches, especially on education, technology, and business topics. Joan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Anatomy from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria, and has worked as a researcher and writer for organizations across Nigeria, the US, the UK, and Germany. Joan enjoys meditation, watching movies, and learning new languages in her free time.

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Fact-checked by Amanpreet Kaur

Bachelor of Business Administration, Masters of Business Administration specializing in Accounting and Finance

Amanpreet Kaur picture

Amanpreet KaurBachelor of Business Administration, Masters of Business Administration specializing in Accounting and Finance

Amanpreet has a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the Birla Institute of Technology and Xavier Institute of Social Service respectively, coupled with her internships at Decimal Point Analytics and the Royal Bank of Scotland, has equipped her with the necessary skills to analyze complex data and present insights in an easy-to-understand format. Her paper on the impact of COVID-19 on CSR programs has received high commendation.

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