Frequently asked questions about World Alzheimer's Day™

Here are some of the more frequently asked questions we receive about World Alzheimer's Day™. If you have any others, email us at info@alz.co.uk

When is World Alzheimer's Day?

World Alzheimer's Day is observed on 21 September every year.

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Why was 21 September selected as World Alzheimer's Day?

World Alzheimer's Day was launched at the opening of ADI's annual conference in Edinburgh on 21 September 1994 to celebrate our 10th anniversary.

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There are so many international days. What do they achieve?

World Alzheimer's Day is a day that unites opinion leaders, people with dementia, their carers and family, medical professionals, researchers and the media from all around the world.

Having a globally co-ordinated awareness day sends a strong message to governments and policy makers alerting them of the fact that dementia is a serious health issue which will have serious implications on services and health systems around the world as the world's population grows older. In addition, by focusing on a different message each year, the day can be used to educate and challenge people's misconceptions about dementia.

21 September provides an opportunity for Alzheimer associations around the world to gain recognition and credibility for the work they do, placing themselves in a stronger position to influence opinion leaders and governments.

World Alzheimer's Day is also an excellent opportunity to have fun!

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How do you measure the success of World Alzheimer's Day?

We measure the success of World Alzheimer's Day in a number of ways.

Each year, more and more countries are participating in at least one World Alzheimer's Day event. For example, 57 countries organised an event in 2003 - the highest number yet.

The average number of daily visitors to our website almost doubled on 21 September last year, suggesting that more people received our materials on World Alzheimer's Day.

Evaluation forms from members and others who organised events last year showed that World Alzheimer's Day is having a greater impact each year. ADI Members mostly measure this in terms of number of media impressions and enquiries they receive immediately after World Alzheimer's Day. In Pakistan the Minister of Health announced the establishment of a day care centre - the first of its kind in the country - following the campaigning of the association on World Alzheimer's Day 2003. Many members also see a significant increase in the number of individuals joining their association as a result of the increase awareness around 21 September.

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Who is responsible for World Alzheimer's Day?

World Alzheimer's Day is an initiative of ADI. Each year, ADI seeks financial support to produce and distribute World Alzheimer's Day materials around the world, enabling members to organise events in their different counties.

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What does ADI do on World Alzheimer's Day?

ADI co-ordinates World Alzheimer's Day around the world by producing, distributing and encouraging members and other organisations around the world to organise an event on the day. In addition, ADI issues a press release to maximise the media coverage for the day.

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How can I participate in World Alzheimer's Day?

There are several ways you can participate in World Alzheimer's Day. You could organise your own event or contact the Alzheimer association in your country and find out what they are planning and how you can help out. You can also help by donating to ADI.

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Do I have to have dementia or care for someone with dementia to participate in World Alzheimer's Day?

Anyone can participate in World Alzheimer's Day and the more people that participate, the more awareness about dementia will be generated.

Where next?

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