June 21 is the first day of summer, summer solstice; it’s also the longest day in the Northern Hemisphere. As we mark the year’s longest day of sunshine, many people are coming together to fight the darkness of Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association’s “The Longest Day” events. The purpose of The Longest Day is to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. From sunrise to sunset, families and friends of all ages will be choosing an activity to raise funds and awareness for research and programs to end Alzheimer’s disease.
Our team at BRIGHT joins The Alzheimer’s Association in a shared commitment to accelerate the global progress of new treatments, preventions and, ultimately, a cure for Alzheimer’s. Every day, across the globe, research is ongoing to prevent and treat Alzheimer’s. Many of these studies fall into 5 categories:
The day with the most light is the day we fight To end Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a growing, global health crisis. In 2022, Alzheimer’s and all other dementia will cost the US nearly $321 billion. That makes Alzheimer’s both our largest under-recognized public health crisis and also our most expensive. By 2050, the number of people aged 65 and older with Alzheimer’s may grow to a projected 12.7 million, unless researchers are able to develop and deploy medical breakthroughs to prevent, slow or cure Alzheimer’s disease.
Still today, there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s and many facets of the disease remain a mystery to scientists. What we know is that as Alzheimer’s progresses, it devastates families as it relentlessly steals from our loved ones, their memories, independence, security, identities and ultimately their lives.
The Longest Day is a key part of Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, which is recognized in June and highlights awareness and education about Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. If you’re able, visit The Longest Day and create your own fundraiser or join the BRIGHT team before June 21. Additionally, we’re hosting a caregivers meditation on June 21 at 10:00 AM EST.
