Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month (June)
Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month is observed each June to shed light on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Initiated by the Alzheimer’s Association, this month promotes brain health, early detection, and caregiver support. Purple is worn to honor those living with cognitive disorders and those lost to the disease.
For Native American communities, Alzheimer’s represents more than just a medical issue—it’s a cultural crisis. Elders are revered as carriers of history, language, and ceremony. When memory fades, so does a precious link to heritage.
Research shows Native American elders face a higher risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia than many other groups. Risk factors include:
High rates of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease
Poor access to specialized care and diagnostic services
Poverty and lack of transportation to healthcare
Low public awareness about dementia symptoms
Early signs such as confusion, difficulty following conversations, or losing track of time may be misunderstood or ignored. In some Native cultures, memory loss is seen as “just getting old,” which delays diagnosis and support.
Additionally, stigma around mental decline can prevent families from speaking up. Some may fear shame or isolation. Others may simply lack knowledge of available resources.
Still, Native communities are responding creatively:
Intergenerational activities and memory workshops that use storytelling, beadwork, or language games
Tribal health departments offering brain health education with cultural relevance
Community screenings during health fairs, powwows, or senior gathering
Caregiving and Community Strength:
Many Native families care for elders at home, guided by deep cultural values. But caregivers need support—emotionally, financially, and practically. They may benefit from:
Respite care
Mental health support
Training in dementia care techniques
Culturally tailored support groups
Let’s protect the minds of our elders, not just for their health—but for the preservation of our cultures and collective memory.
