In 1983 President Ronald Reagan designated the month of November as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. At that time, there were approximately 2 million people living with Alzheimer’s disease. Today, that number has grown to well over 5 million and according to the CDC, by 2060 that number is projected to nearly triple to 14 million.

November is also recognized as National Family Caregivers Month. Caregivers are all around us. They are found in our family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. This month is also a time to honor the contribution of these special volunteers who contribute their time to help loved ones with their health, managing daily tasks, and giving them overall support.

Did you know that Alzheimer’s disease affects 1 in 2 families in the United States? The impact could come not only from a personal diagnosis, but also through caregiving. Caregivers for those with Alzheimer’s disease face their own kind of challenges, and it’s not something that you have to expect to do alone. Many times, caregiving involves a team of people who can help with the different roles and participate in the decision-making process.

Dealing with memory problems, or an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis can be very challenging.  Memory Cafés were started to give folks a safe and judgment-free space to share the journey. Join us for laughter, reminiscence, and camaraderie with others living with a memory diagnosis. Non-professional care companions are welcome to join!

Cate McCarty, Ph.D., also known as Dr. Cate, Dementia Coach, presents a comfortable and engaging environment. Dr. Cate brings a 40-year background in dementia care and quality of life to the monthly gathering along with the opportunity to meet new people and simply enjoy a change of pace. VIEW UPCOMING MEMORY CAFÉ DATES HERE.

Memory Cafés are just one way to get involved when it comes to raising awareness and working towards finding potential new Alzheimer’s disease treatments. Participating in research studies may also be an option. If someone you love has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Olympian Clinical Research is seeking patients to take part in clinical studies. Qualified participants receive care from board-certified physicians and receive compensation for time and travel. To learn more and see how you or someone you love may qualify for a study, click HERE.