June is here! Yes, we’ve reached month six of 2026!
June is a month of awareness. Alzheimer’s, Brain Health, Safety. These three topics touch so many of us and impact us all. Let’s take a look at highlights for all three today.
Image by Kohji Asakawa from Pixabay
Alzheimer’s
The facts and figures about Alzheimer’s always stop me in my tracks. ALZ Journals provides deep research about the statistics, if you’re interested.
Alzheimer’s disease is a condition that gradually damages and destroys nerve cells (called neurons) in the brain. Researchers believe these and other changes in the brain may result in symptoms of Alzheimer’s, such as problems with memory and language.
The Alzheimer’s Association offers resources and many local chapters. Find yours HERE
Prevalence
- Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease.
- This number is expected to rise to approximately 13.8 million by 2060.
Mortality
- 1 in 3 older adults dies with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
- Alzheimer’s disease is a leading cause of death, surpassing deaths from breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.
Economic Impact
- The financial burden of Alzheimer’s is significant, with costs projected to reach $409 billion in 2026 for health and long-term care related to dementia.
Caregiving
- Approximately 13 million Americans provide unpaid care for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.
- Caregivers face substantial emotional, financial, and physical challenges, with many reporting a need for more support.
Demographics
- The majority of those affected are older adults, with the risk increasing significantly with age.
- Women are disproportionately affected, making up nearly two-thirds of the Alzheimer’s population.
Future Projections
- As the population ages, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s is expected to grow, highlighting the urgent need for advancements in treatment and support systems.
Brain Health
Alzheimer’s and brain health are terms used interchangeably by many. Let me try to provide the distinction between the two. Brain health refers to the overall well-being and functioning of the brain, encompassing cognitive abilities, emotional stability, and the absence of neurological disorders. Maintaining brain health can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairments.
Differences Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Brain Health
Definition
| Aspect | Alzheimer’s Disease | Brain Health |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | A specific neurodegenerative condition | Overall well-being and functioning of the brain |
| Description | Leads to cognitive decline and is the most common cause of dementia | Encompasses cognitive abilities, emotional stability, and absence of neurological disorders |
Impact
| Aspect | Alzheimer’s Disease | Brain Health |
|---|---|---|
| Effects | Causes memory loss, confusion, and behavioral changes | Supports cognitive function, emotional well-being, and daily functioning |
| Progression | Progressive decline over time, ultimately leading to severe impairment | Can be maintained or improved through healthy lifestyle choices |
Prevention and Management
| Aspect | Alzheimer’s Disease | Brain Health |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment | No cure; medications may manage symptoms | Can be supported through lifestyle choices, mental stimulation, and physical activity |
| Risk Factors | Age, genetics, and certain health conditions | Healthy diet, regular exercise, and mental engagement can reduce risk |
The Alzheimer’s Association announced a new initiative last month called (re)think your brain. The goal is to live better now, protect your memory, and potentially reduce your risks. Sign up HERE to join the six-step challenge. I signed up to participate!
Safety
Join the National Safety Council this June for the 30th Anniversary of National Safety Month, dedicated to keeping people safe from the workplace to anyplace. Since 1996, National Safety Month has offered free resources to help prevent injuries and save lives. Let’s make people safer this June and all year long!
Safety awareness month focuses on the leading causes of preventable injury and death, with a different safety topic each week. Discover the safety topics HERE.
Be Aware, Stay Safe
As summer begins, make some time for fun! Remember the saying “slow down to speed up”! Yes, there are still responsibilities, and you can take some time to recharge.
Sometimes summertime is a time to tackle projects. If considering all your planning is on that list, I’m here! I’m happy to discuss your situation with you. Click Book a Time with Lynn for a complimentary 30-minute Zoom with me. OR, send me a note via Email. Check out what I offer @ The Living Planner.
If reading is on your list, my book is an easy read with short chapters that highlight specific topics to help you prepare. The 2026 edition of Living Planner What to Prepare Now While You Are Living © is available – Check it out HERE.
Quote of the week: ‘Life is what happens to us while we are making other plans”. -J.R.R. Tolkien
Be aware and stay safe – Lynn
#Can’tPredictCanPrepare #CareForPeopleCareForBusiness