Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia triggering progressive changes in one’s behavior, thinking, and memory. Symptoms may surface slowly and then decline rapidly in later stages. Currently, there is no cure, only treatment. Drastic and variable behavior changes make it difficult to determine the appropriate care needed. Sufferers of this disease and their caretakers need to know they are supported and thought of every day. The Longest Day Event was created by the Alzheimer’s Association to bring awareness to this disease.
History of the Event
The Alzheimer’s Association designed The Longest Day to educate the world about Alzheimer’s and the caretakers caring for them. The event will be modified and changed this year to ensure social distancing guidelines are met but will remain as meaningful and impactful as in the past. The event date is June 20th, the longest day of the year. A key focus will be a tribute to those affected by the disease, including the caretakers who make a difference in their lives.
The Relevance of Alzheimer’s
The Alzheimer’s Association states more than five million people in the US are living with this disease and it is currently the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States. Caregivers number 16.3 million and primarily consist of friends or family, providing up to 18.6 billion hours of unpaid care. It is important to recognize the sacrifices of those caregivers and to help support any who suffer from it. The disease is expected to increase to 75 million by 2030 and subsequently rise in relevance and importance to families and those with Alzheimer’s. The Longest Day is a unique approach to raise Alzheimer’s awareness and increase research funding.
How to Participate
Simply register online, create your fundraising page, describe how to participate in the activity, and invite others you know to help fundraise! A variety of activities exist for involvement: exercise (yoga, pilates, weights to name a few); sports (kayaking, bowling, basketball, golf and more); games (monopoly, bridge, poker, jump rope); hobbies (jigsaw puzzles, pool, crocheting, origami). All these activities could be done from home and some even online. Fundraising activities for The Longest Day are able to be restructured within CoVid precautions. The Longest Day is a time to remember those who fight and have fought Alzheimer’s; theirs is a legacy we should not ignore.
If you are passionate about Alzheimer’s and want to help others, join Bridge to Better Living by visiting the website alz.org and clicking on the Volunteers link. As a Longest Day volunteer, you have the opportunity to provide event planning, expertise, and coaching on fundraising. The Longest Day considers your interest and schedule and will help set you up for success. Companies and organizations are invited to participate as sponsors to raise awareness. Logo presence on the Alzheimer’s website and customized coaching are two exclusive benefits offered to organizations participate. As a sponsor, you are doing your part to help fund research for this incredibly relevant issue.
Raising Awareness
Raising Alzheimer’s awareness and its effect on not only the sufferer- but the family providing care and support for their loved ones is incredibly important. More awareness and engagement lead to an increase in research for treatment, prevention, and, an eventual cure. Raising awareness and being a strong advocate, gives a voice to those who do not have one.
Bridge to Better Living has extensive experience working with families who are living with Alzheimer’s. We believe in finding the appropriate level of care for these clients and respect each of them as an individual. Bridge to Better Living consultants are strong proponents of Placement with Passion®. If you or a Loved One are thinking of additional care due to memory issues, speak with one of our Transition Consultants and find the best home specializing in memory care.