JUNE 1, 2025

NAVIGATING THE LONGEST DAY

UNDERSTANDING ALZHEIMER’S

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month – a time to honor the strength of those living with Alzheimer’s and the caregivers who walk beside them every day. A meaningful highlight of the month is The Longest Day, observed near the summer solstice. It symbolizes the long, challenging days faced by individuals with Alzheimer’s and the unwavering dedication of their caregivers.

Learn About the Disease

When someone you love is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. But knowledge truly is power. Learning about the stages of the disease and how it progresses can help you anticipate changes, adjust your caregiving strategies, and feel more confident in your role.

Consider reading caregiver guides, attending workshops, or speaking with a dementia care specialist. The more you understand, the easier it becomes to approach each day with patience and care.

Build Effective Communication Skills

As Alzheimer’s progresses, communication often becomes more difficult – but small shifts in how you interact can make a big difference:

• Use short, clear sentences to help avoid confusion.
• Maintain eye contact and speak in a calm, reassuring tone.
• Listen with empathy and validate their emotions, even if the facts are unclear.

Sometimes, it helps to let go of correcting and instead focus on simply being present. It can make interactions more peaceful and meaningful.

Get Involved

Feeling part of a larger community can be both empowering and healing. The Longest Day is an opportunity to join others in raising awareness and funds to support Alzheimer’s care and research.

Ways to participate include:

• Hosting or joining a fundraiser – walks, bake sales, or crafting events can all make a difference.
• Sharing your story on social media to raise awareness and help others feel less alone.
• Wearing purple during the month to show solidarity and spark conversation.

Even the smallest efforts can remind us – and others – that we’re not alone in this.

Take Care of Yourself

Alzheimer’s caregiving is a long and emotionally demanding journey. That’s why taking care of your own well-being isn’t optional – it’s essential.

• Build in breaks throughout your week. Even 15 quiet minutes can help you recharge.
• Connect with support groups, online or in-person, to share experiences and gain encouragement.
• Consider Adult Day Programs, like Winter Growth’s, that provide respite for you and social engagement for your loved one.
• Try simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or light stretching.

You deserve care and kindness, too. Giving yourself space to rest and reflect helps you stay resilient and grounded.

Walking the Journey Together

Understanding Alzheimer’s is a powerful step toward building a more compassionate caregiving experience. This June, take time to learn, connect, and care – for your loved one, and for yourself. Even when the days feel long, you don’t have to face them on your own.

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