Alzheimer’s Awareness: What You Need to Know

September is World Alzheimer’s Month, a time to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding dementia. At Age Concern Auckland, we know that understanding the basics can make a huge difference for older people, their whānau, and the wider community.

Here are some key things to know about Alzheimer’s, dementia, and what we can all do to support brain health.

Alzheimer’s vs Dementia — What’s the Difference?

People often use the terms interchangeably, but they’re not the same.

Dementia is the umbrella term for a range of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and behaviour.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60–70% of cases.

Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Each affects the brain in different ways, but they all share one thing in common: they make everyday life progressively more difficult.

How to Communicate and Support Someone with Alzheimer’s

Living with Alzheimer’s can be confusing and frustrating — but the right approach can help maintain dignity and connection.

Be patient: Give extra time for responses and avoid rushing.
Use clear, simple language: Short sentences and direct questions work best.
Stay calm and reassuring: Tone of voice and body language are as important as words.
Focus on feelings, not just facts: Even if details are forgotten, the emotions of kindness and respect remain.
Create routines: Familiar patterns and environments reduce stress and confusion.

Sometimes, just sitting together and offering quiet companionship can mean more than words.

Can We Help Prevent Alzheimer’s?

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, research shows there are ways to reduce the risk of dementia and support brain health as we age:

Stay physically active: Regular movement supports blood flow to the brain.
Eat well: Diets rich in vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, and healthy fats (like the Mediterranean diet) are linked with better brain health.
Keep socially connected: Regular interaction with friends, whānau, and community groups reduces isolation and supports cognitive resilience.
Challenge your brain: Learning new skills, doing crosswords, or taking up a hobby keeps your mind active.
Manage health conditions: Keeping blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol under control lowers risk.
Protect your hearing: Hearing loss is linked to increased dementia risk — getting hearing checks and aids when needed is important.

Where to Get Support

If you or someone you love is affected by memory loss or dementia:

Contact Alzheimers NZ at www.alzheimers.org.nz for resources and local support groups.
Reach out to Age Concern Auckland for guidance, social connection services, and practical support for older people and their families.

Takeaway

Alzheimer’s and dementia touch many families across Auckland, but by learning the facts, showing compassion, and taking steps to protect our brain health, we can build a more supportive and understanding community.

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