This September, the Alzheimer's Association is observing the inaugural World Alzheimer's Month. There are more than 35 million people living with dementia worldwide (over 37,000 in Maine with Alzheimer's disease) and there are nearly 15 million unpaid Alzheimer's caregivers in the U.S. (over 147,000 in Maine).

Alzheimer's disease is the nation's sixth-leading cause of death. Behind every statistic there is a person. Millions of people are enduring the devastation of this disease that steals memories, independence, control, time and ultimately life. Yet, there are heroes among us who refuse to back down to this cruel disease that currently has no survivors. 

Maine people are invited to join us and become one of our everyday heroes in the fight against Alzheimer's disease by declaring that "The End of Alzheimer's Starts with ME" and participating in any of the following actions:

• Know the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer's disease. For more information, visit: www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_10_signs_of_alzheimers.asp?type=more_information.
• Let friends, neighbors and loved ones know about our 24/7 helpline (1-800-272-3900) available to any caregiver or person living with Alzheimer's for information, education and support. For more information: www.alz.org/maine/in_my_community_helping.asp. 
• Join our upcoming Walk to End Alzheimer's which will take place at 13 locations in Maine on September 24 and October 1. Participants will walk together and learn more about Alzheimer's disease, advocacy opportunities, clinical trial enrollment, and support programs and services of the Alzheimer's Association. Each walker will also join in a meaningful tribute ceremony to honor those affected by Alzheimer's disease. More than 2,500people from these areas are expected at this year's event to raise awareness and funds to fight Alzheimer's disease. Please link to the Walk event nearest to you for details about that event's specific registration andWalk times, distance, and other information at www.alz.org/walk or call 800-272-3900.
• Make a difference close to home. Become an advocate, attend a special event or become a volunteer. For more information, visit www.alz.org/maine/in_my_community_participate.asp .
• Make a donation online at www.alz.org/maine/in_my_community_donate.asp.
• Go purple on September 21st - Alzheimer's Action Day and encourage your family and friends to do so.  For more information on Alzheimer's disease or how to go purple, visit www.alz.org/wam.
• Post a comment cheering on or recognizing an Alzheimer's hero you know at www.alz.org/wam.
• Stay in touch and up-to-date on Maine chapter services and happenings by joining us on our social media pages. For more information, visit: www.alz.org/maine/in_my_community_contact.asp or simply click on the links below. 

The end of Alzheimer's disease starts with Maine. Together we can make a difference in the lives of millions. Take action today.

About the Alzheimer's Association:  The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Association, Maine Chapter serves the entire State of Maine from its Scarborough office.  There are approximately 37,000 families in Maine who are affected by Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. Visit www.alz.org/maine or call 1.800.272.3900.