World Alzheimer's Month
Dementia awareness
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World Alzheimer's Month 2026
This September 2026, we are reflecting on how much can happen in a lifetime, as dementia research is gaining momentum – bringing us closer to a cure than ever.
Previously, treatments could only help to manage symptoms. But now, drugs exist that can actively slow early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. And a record number of clinical trials are testing a broad range of drugs to tackle the condition’s underlying causes.
Alzheimer’s Research UK has been at the heart of this progress so far. We’re funding game-changing research to bring us closer to a world free from dementia.
And we won’t stop until we get there.
That's why World Alzheimer's Month matters.
Every donation. Every fundraiser. Every conversation. Every action helps bring a cure closer.
Join the World Alzheimer’s Month conversation on our socials
Why is World Alzheimer’s Month important to Alzheimer’s Research UK?
At Alzheimer's Research UK, World Alzheimer's Month matters because it shines an international spotlight on our mission and our cause. This helps us to build a clearer picture of the impact dementia has on individuals, families, carers and communities.
The month gives a voice to the experiences of everyone affected by dementia, and encourages conversations about how we treat, prevent, and one day – cure dementia. It also helps us to amplify our efforts to challenge the stigma and misconceptions surrounding dementia by encouraging open conversations and sharing evidence-based information – topics we work tirelessly on all year round.
For the first time, a world free from the fear, harm and heartbreak of dementia feels within reach.
And with increased awareness and understanding, we can help people feel more empowered to seek a diagnosis, access support, partake in research, and learn more about reducing their risk.
Every conversation helps challenge misconceptions. Every fundraiser helps power research. Every voice helps push for the change needed to ensure people can benefit from new advances.
Ultimately, World Alzheimer's Month gives a focus to us bringing together our supporters, the researcher community, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, because only together can we drive investment in research and find a cure.
Carole Greig, 70, is living with Alzheimer's disease. Described by her daughter Amanda as the "matriarch" of the family, Carole has always been at the centre of family life, with a love of walking, tennis, theatre and bringing people together. Despite the challenges of dementia, she remains determined to stay active and make the most of every day.
“I know the impact dementia has on families as well as the person living with the condition. The burden can be immense, which is why raising awareness and supporting research is so important. A cure would make all the difference to those living with dementia, as well as their carers, friends and family."
“A cure can't come soon enough.”
Amanda Greig, whose mum is Carole is living with Alzheimer's disease
How World Alzheimer’s Month is helping our cause
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Raises awareness of dementia
World Alzheimer’s Month helps more people understand dementia and recognise the impact it has on individuals, families and carers.
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Supports research funding
September gives us the opportunity to reach more people and tell them how they can support vital research into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of dementia.
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Reduces stigma
It’s an opportunity for open, honest conversations and sharing accurate, evidence-based information to help break down the fear and misconceptions that can surround a dementia diagnosis.
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Influences policy and healthcare
Increased attention helps encourage policymakers and healthcare systems to take a closer look and to listen.
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Boosts fundraising efforts
Our efforts during World Alzheimer’s Month inspire donations, events, and community fundraising that fuel groundbreaking dementia research.
Get involved
There are many ways to get involved during World Alzheimer’s Month and beyond. From campaigning, to participating in dementia research, to fundraising, or leaving a gift in your Will.
1. Share our mission
As Europe’s largest charitable funder of dementia research, Alzheimer’s Research UK has been at the heart of progress against dementia.
We know more than ever about Alzheimer’s disease. A record number of drugs are being tested in clinical trials. And dementia research continues to gain momentum.
Somewhere, someone alive today could be the first one cured of Alzheimer’s disease.
Every share on socials and every pound donated brings us closer to a cure, faster.
2. Campaign for real change
Research is gaining momentum. The first treatments that can slow Alzheimer's are here and more are coming. Unless the NHS is prepared for new treatments and diagnostics, people could miss out on the progress dementia research is making possible. Your voice can help change this.
3. Fundraise for a cure
Whether you organise your own or join one of ours, there is a fundraising activity for everyone. Our fundraising guide is bursting with inspiring ideas, practical tips, and everything you need to kick-start your fundraising journey.
4. Take part in dementia research
Dementia research is at a turning point. Two new treatments have been licensed in many countries across the world, including for private use in the UK. These medications are the first of their kind to slow down the progression of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
The development and approval of these treatments wouldn't have happened without people taking part in research studies. Scientists are working hard to understand how we can prevent dementia, improve ways of diagnosing it, and find life-changing treatments for all types of dementia.
There are over 150 dementia treatments in trials that have the potential to change lives, but we need more people to take part.
Join Dementia Research will match you to the dementia research studies that you are suitable for. You can then choose which studies you want to get involved in via your online account.
5. Stay informed
We know that being affected by dementia means being on a journey filled with heartbreak, frustration and uncertainty.
If you’re worried about symptoms of dementia or have questions about how dementia is diagnosed, our Dementia Research Infoline is here to help.
You can call us on 0300 111 5111 (9.00-5.00pm Monday to Friday - excluding bank holidays) or email us on infoline@alzheimersresearchuk.org .
