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- Stay Connected with the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter
Every day, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter shares timely information, helpful resources, and inspiring stories for individuals living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, advocates, and supporters across our state. Staying connected with us on social media is one of the easiest ways to stay informed and make an impact. By following our channels, you’ll find: Brain health tips and the latest Alzheimer’s research Caregiver resources, support groups, and education programs Advocacy updates and ways to get involved Community events, fundraising opportunities, and local stories Messages of hope from families and supporters like you We post daily , and every follow, like, and share helps spread awareness, reduce stigma, and connect families to critical support. 👉 Follow, subscribe, like, and share today: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlzIllinois Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alzillinois/ LinkedIn: (60) Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter: Overview | LinkedIn X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/alzIllinois Your engagement helps ensure that important information reaches the people who need it most. Together, we can build a more informed, compassionate Illinois—one post at a time. 💜 Thank you for being part of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter community.
- Americans want early diagnosis, treatment and are open to risk-taking to slow disease progression
As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease tops more than 7 million for the first time, nearly 4 in 5 Americans would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s disease before it impacted their lives. They also want treatment, even if it comes with risks, as long as it slows the progression of the disease. These are among the insights uncovered in the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures Report released by the Alzheimer’s Association today. The 2025 Facts and Figures report provides an in-depth look at the latest national and state-by-state statistics on Alzheimer’s prevalence, mortality, dementia care workforce, costs of care and impact on caregivers. New disease-related statistics for Illinois revealed the following: Number of Illinois residents aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s: 250,600 Statewide deaths from Alzheimer’s disease: 4,111 Statewide mortality rate from Alzheimer’s (per 100,000 people): 32.6 Number of Illinois residents serving as unpaid family caregivers: 316,000 Total hours of unpaid care provided: 488 Million Total value of unpaid care: $12.5 Billion “ This year’s report finds that the impact of Alzheimer’s on Illinois residents and families is significant,” said Delia Jervier, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter. “Now more than ever, we need to work to advance disease research and treatments that can slow the current trajectory and help all Illinois families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia.” The new report shows prevalence, disease-related deaths and cost of caring for those living with Alzheimer’s are rising across the country. Among the findings: 7.2 million people aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Total annual costs of caring for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias (excluding unpaid care) is projected to be $384 billion in 2025. Additionally, nearly 12 million family members and friends provide 19.2 billion hours of unpaid care, valued at an additional $413 billion. Deaths due to Alzheimer’s disease more than doubled between 2000 and 2022. An accompanying special report, American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment , highlights a national survey of more than 1,700 U.S. adults, aged 45 and older, examining awareness and attitudes of early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, tests used to help diagnose Alzheimer’s and treatments that can slow progression of the disease. Among the findings revealed in the new survey: Americans want to know early if they have Alzheimer’s disease and want access to testing. Nearly 4 in 5 Americans (79%) would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s disease before having symptoms or before symptoms interfere with daily activities. More than 9 in 10 Americans would definitely or probably want a simple test (e.g. blood-based biomarker test) if it was available. The number one reason for wanting a simple test is to allow for earlier treatment and care. If diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, most Americans would want medication to slow its progression and would highly value information about the disease and treatment. More than 9 in 10 Americans (92%) would probably or definitely want to take a medication that could slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Nearly three in five Americans (58%) said they would accept a moderate or high level of risk with taking an anti-amyloid medication to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Nearly 1 in 4 Americans (22%) are willing to accept high risk. Americans’ top concerns about Alzheimer’s testing are insurance coverage, accuracy and cost. 44% worry that insurance won’t cover future care and treatment. Other top concerns include test accuracy, cost, potential to lose confidence in abilities and not being allowed to do certain activities, such as driving. Americans are optimistic that the next decade will bring new treatments to slow, prevent and even cure Alzheimer’s disease. Four in 5 Americans (81%) believe new treatments to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s will emerge in the next decade, and 66% believe new treatments to prevent Alzheimer’s will be available soon. “The survey underscores the need for advancing new treatments and making early diagnosis easier and more accessible to anyone concerned about their memory and thinking,” Said Jervier. “We’re encouraged that the survey finds people want to be proactive in addressing cognitive concerns. That’s a real positive because early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s offers the best opportunity for care, management and treatment of the disease.” Full text of the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, including the accompanying special report, American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment , can be viewed at alz.org/facts . About 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures The Alzheimer ’ s Association 2025 Alzheimer ’ s Disease Facts and Figures report is a comprehensive compilation of national statistics and information on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The report conveys the impact of Alzheimer’s on individuals, families, government and the nation’s health care system. Since its 2007 inaugural release, the report has become the preeminent source covering the broad spectrum of Alzheimer’s issues. The Facts and Figures report is an official publication of the Alzheimer’s Association. The report is published annually in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. About the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia ® . Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
- 🌟 Exciting News — Caregiver Award Nominations Extended to December 7!
Illinois Women Conquer ALZ and the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter are thrilled to extend nominations for the Caregiver Awards an additional week. There’s still time to honor the incredible caregivers who support people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia across Illinois. This year, we will recognize two exceptional caregivers:✨ One Family & Friend Caregiver ✨ One Paid Professional Caregiver Nominations are now open through December 7, 2025 . Help us celebrate the compassion, dedication, and strength of those who give so much of themselves to care for others. 🏆 Award recipients will be notified in January 2026 and honored at the Power of Purple: A Reason to Hope Luncheon on March 12, 2026 , at the Fairmont – Millennium Park. 💜 Let’s shine a bright light on these extraordinary individuals.👉 Nominate a caregiver today! Submit your nomination at: ilalzwomen.org/events/caregiver-awards
- 🌍 Giving Tuesday Is December 2. Help Us Advance the Fight Against Alzheimer’s
On Giving Tuesday , millions of people around the world will unite for a global day of generosity — a day dedicated to creating meaningful, positive change. This year, we invite you to be part of that impact by supporting the Alzheimer’s Association and helping fuel critical progress in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Your generosity powers a new era of breakthroughs. From cutting-edge prevention studies to revolutionary early detection through blood-based tests, your support accelerates science that brings us closer to a world without Alzheimer’s. And here in Illinois, your contributions ensure that families across the state continue to receive free, local programs and services when they need them most. 💜 The Walk May Be Over, But Our Mission Continues While Walk to End Alzheimer’s season has wrapped, our work is far from finished. We’re pushing forward to reach our year-end goal by December 31 , and every single dollar truly makes a difference for individuals and families facing Alzheimer’s across Illinois. 🎁 Special Incentive: Warm Up With a Walk Beanie From November 29 through December 14 , when you raise $50 , you’ll receive a cozy Walk to End Alzheimer’s beanie as a thank-you for making an impact during this season of giving. It’s a perfect way to show your support and stay warm all winter long! 💜 Make Your Impact This Giving Tuesday Join us in keeping the momentum strong and the mission moving forward.👉 Donate or fundraise today: alzheimers-illinois.org/walk Together, we can bring hope, support, and scientific progress to families across Illinois and move one step closer to ending Alzheimer’s. Let’s make this Giving Tuesday count! 💜
- Volunteer Spotlight: Kathy Kelley, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter
Shared by: Kathy Kelley For most people, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a powerful, once-a-year experience. For Kathy, that experience became a year-round commitment to supporting families, caregivers, and the mission to end Alzheimer’s. Two years ago, she was scrolling through Instagram when a simple post caught her eye, an invitation to volunteer at the DuPage Walk to End Alzheimer's at North Central College. She signed up, unsure of what to expect. What she found was a community filled with purpose, hope, and connection. “I was so moved by the whole atmosphere of the day,” she recalls. “I knew I wanted to do more.” She asked if help was needed beyond the event, and the answer was yes. Since then, she has become a steady and invaluable part of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s office in Lisle, volunteering a few hours each week behind the scenes. Her work may not always be visible to walkers on Walk day, but it’s essential: Making phone calls Writing heartfelt thank-you notes Preparing supplies for Walk sites across the region Supporting the DuPage Walk team year after year Her commitment is rooted in deeply personal experience. Alzheimer’s and dementia have touched multiple generations of her family, her grandmother, uncle, and aunt. Her cousin passed away in her early 60s from frontotemporal dementia and today, her brother is living with Alzheimer’s. “In fact, as she’s sharing her story, she is caregiving for her brother to give my sister-in-law a break,” she shares. These moments, both heartbreaking and meaningful, fuel her determination. Despite the heavy reality of the disease, she chooses to channel her energy into action.“I hope I can play a small part in fighting for a cure,” she shares. She does every week, with every note, every call, every box packed for Walk day. Her dedication reminds us that the fight against Alzheimer’s is not only about big gestures, but also the quiet, consistent acts of service that move this mission forward. Thank you, Kathy, for sharing your heart, your time, and your story. You are making an incredible difference for families across Illinois. If you are interested in participating in a local Walk to End Alzheimer’s, contact a Walk Manager at https://www.alz.org/walk or if you are interested in in sharing your story contact Lionell Martin at lrmartin@alz.org .
- Jackie Olkiewicz, named chair of the 2026 Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter Do What You Love To End Alz Campaign
The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter announced that Jackie Olkiewicz , has been named Chair of the 2026 Do What You Love to End ALZ campaign. “It is a profound honor to serve as Chair for this meaningful campaign. Alzheimer’s has touched my life in a deeply personal way — my mother battled the disease, and I witnessed firsthand the emotional and physical toll it takes on individuals and their families,” said Jackie Olkiewicz. “I lost her in December of 2023. That experience fuels my commitment to the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission: to drive groundbreaking research, improve care and support, and raise awareness for all those affected. This cause is not just close to my heart — it’s part of my story.” The Do What You Love to End ALZ campaign encourages individuals and communities to turn their passions into purpose—raising funds and awareness to support Alzheimer’s care, research, and advocacy. “We are thrilled to have Jackie leading this year’s campaign. Her energy, compassion, and dedication to the cause truly embody the spirit of Do What You Love to End ALZ, said Sharon Connolly, Manager, Do What You Love to End ALZ Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter. Currently, more than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease — one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Nearly 12 million family members and friends provide unpaid care for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. In Illinois alone, more than 266,500 individuals are affected, supported by 314,000 caregivers statewide. To learn more about how you can participate or start your own fundraiser, visit alz.org/dowhatyoulove . About Do What You Love to End ALZ Do What You Love to End ALZ makes it simple to make a difference. By turning your passions, whether cooking, running, painting, or playing music—into a fundraiser, you help advance the fight against Alzheimer’s and all other dementias. There’s no limit to what you can do when you do what you love.
- Illinois Women Conquer ALZ Honors Caregivers Across Illinois During National Family Caregivers Month
Nominations Open for the 2025 Caregiver Recognition Awards (Previous Award Recipients Are Available for Interview) Each year, Illinois Women Conquer ALZ (IWCA) honors the everyday heroes who provide exceptional care and unwavering support to individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. These caregivers, whether family members, friends, or professionals, embody compassion, resilience, and dedication in the face of one of life’s greatest challenges. In recognition of National Family Caregivers Month , IWCA proudly invites the community to nominate a caregiver in Illinois who has made a meaningful difference in the life of someone affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia. Nominations will be accepted throughout October and November 2025 . Two outstanding individuals will be selected for recognition in the following categories: Family & Friend Caregiver Award – Honors an unpaid individual or family member who has devoted their time, compassion, and energy to caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia (currently or in the past). Paid Professional Caregiver Award – Recognizes a dedicated professional who exemplifies excellence in caregiving, serving as a model for others in the field. Eligible roles include nursing assistants, home care workers, nurses, therapists, administrators, clergy, social workers, and others providing professional care. “These awards are a heartfelt way to shine a light on those who selflessly care for others and to share their inspiring stories with our broader community,” said Ryan Jameson, Sr. Events Manager, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter. “Caregivers are the unsung heroes of the Alzheimer’s journey, and their strength and compassion deserve to be celebrated.” Award recipients will be announced in January 2026 and formally recognized at IWCA’s signature event , the Power of Purple: A Reason to Hope Luncheon , on Thursday, March 12, 2026 , at the Fairmont Chicago – Millennium Park . This uplifting event brings together caregivers, advocates, and leaders who are making a profound difference in the fight to end Alzheimer’s. To nominate a caregiver and learn more about the awards, visit https://ilalzwomen.org/events/caregiver-awards/ Help us honor the remarkable individuals who give so much of themselves— nominate a caregiver today. About Illinois Women Conquer ALZ (IWCA): Illinois Women Conquer ALZ is a network of women united in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease. Through advocacy, fundraising, and awareness efforts, IWCA empowers women to take action and make a lasting impact in the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. About the Alzheimer’s Association: The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
- CHICAGO BULLS ASSISTANT COACH RAISING MONEY IN HONOR OF HIS FATHER
This November, in recognition of National Family Caregivers Month and No Shave November , Chicago Bulls Assistant Coach John Bryant launched the “Mustachios for Memory” — a heartfelt campaign to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association in celebration of his father, John, and in honor of the nearly 12 million family and friends across the U.S. who provide unpaid care for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Bryant invites everyone to put down the razor and pick up a cause . Whether it’s a mustache, beard, goatee, or soul patch, participants can join the movement by growing facial hair throughout November and spread awareness one whisker at a time. In 2021, John Bryant became an Assistant Coach for the Chicago Bulls. Born in Woodbridge, Virginia and played at Saint Joseph’s University. Coach Bryant went on to play in the NBA G League, ABA, and played professionally overseas in Australia, England, and Germany. John is participating in the Alzheimer’s Association’s Do What You Love To End Alz fundraiser. If you would like to join in the fight to end Alzheimer's and support John Bryant, please make a donation today! https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/johnbryant/mustachios-for-memory . Do What You Love to End Alz is a do-it-yourself fundraising where you turn something you love into a fundraiser to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia - you can learn more at alz.org/dowhatyoulove . Every dollar raised fuels the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia —by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support for families. To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and local resources, visit alz.org/Illinois . So, this November, take a wristband, grow your ‘stache, and stand strong for memory . Together, we can make a difference—one hair at a time.
- Supporting Safe Returns for People Living with Alzheimer’s or Dementia
When a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia goes missing, every minute counts. In Illinois, the Silver Search program was created to ensure a swift and coordinated response to bring missing individuals home safely. Established through legislation that took effect on January 1, 2016 , Silver Search is a statewide initiative designed to raise awareness, educate the public, and provide essential tools and resources to help locate and safely return people with Alzheimer’s or dementia who wander or become lost. The Silver Search Task Force: A Statewide Collaboration To make Silver Search possible, a dedicated task force was formed to unite state agencies, organizations, and advocacy groups in a shared mission: protecting vulnerable individuals and supporting their families. The Silver Search Task Force meets regularly to address public safety needs, improve communication between agencies, and develop educational materials and response protocols. Participating members include: Illinois State Police Illinois Tollway Authority Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Broadcasters Association Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police Illinois Department on Aging Illinois Department of Transportation AARP Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board Illinois Secretary of State Illinois Lottery Through this collaboration, Silver Search continues to strengthen community awareness and enhance the state’s ability to respond quickly and effectively when someone with dementia goes missing. What Is an Endangered Missing Person Advisory? A key component of the Silver Search initiative is the Endangered Missing Person Advisory —a voluntary partnership among law enforcement, local broadcasters, and other public partners designed to quickly alert the community when a person is missing and believed to be in danger. The advisory is activated by local law enforcement and shared broadly through multiple channels to engage the public’s help in locating the missing person. Criteria for an Endangered Missing Person Advisory include: The person is missing under unexplained or suspicious circumstances. The individual is believed to be in danger due to age, health, or mental or physical disability, or because of environmental factors or possible exposure to harm. There is sufficient public information available that could help in the safe recovery of the person. The situation does not meet the criteria for an AMBER Alert. How Does the Public Receive Silver Search Alerts? When an Endangered Missing Person Advisory is issued, information is shared across a variety of platforms to maximize visibility and mobilize the community’s help. Notifications may be sent via email, fax, radio and television broadcasts, text messages, and law enforcement bulletins. In addition, partnerships with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Illinois Tollway Authority allow for messages to be displayed on interstate and tollway digital signs when a missing person may be driving or traveling in a vehicle. The Illinois Lottery also contributes by displaying alerts on digital lottery terminals across retail locations—helping spread critical information to as many people as possible. Working Together to Keep Illinois Safe Silver Search represents the power of community, awareness, and collaboration. By uniting law enforcement, government agencies, advocacy organizations, and the public, Illinois has built a model that saves lives and supports families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. You can play a role too—stay alert to Silver Search advisories, share information when you see it, and learn more about how to support individuals and families living with dementia in your community. For more information about Silver Search and resources for families affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia, visit the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter .
- Walk Volunteer Spotlight
For Pam Godsil, her “why” is her Nannie. Pam cared for her Nannie during her time with dementia, an experience that left a lasting impact and inspired her to get involved with the Alzheimer’s Association. “I want to be involved in helping others navigate the journey,” Pam shares. It ’s about supporting families, educating communities, and advancing research that will one day lead to better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.” When you share your story, you help others feel seen, connected, and inspired to take action. There are no ordinary stories, only extraordinary impact. Your voice could bring comfort to someone who feels alone and bring us all one step closer to a world without Alzheimer’s. 📥 Share your story here: Submit Your Story Your story may even be featured on our social media, blog, or other media opportunities.
- Holiday Travel
● As people conduct their holiday travel this year, planning and completing a long distance trip can be more stressful for the more than 7 million Americans currently living with Alzheimer’s and their families. ● For those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia, travel can be more complex and may trigger anxiety and cause confusion. ● While the disease-related symptoms of this progressive brain disease can sometimes make travel more difficult, it does not mean families can’t travel with a loved one with dementia and participate in holiday festivities. ● For those traveling this holiday season, the Alzheimer's Association recommends careful and thoughtful planning including picking a practical destination, simplifying itineraries, keeping travel necessities close and more. ● Additional considerations to help ensure a safe and smooth trip when traveling with a person living with dementia: Deciding to Travel ● Whether taking a short trip to see friends and family or traveling a far distance for vacation, it's important to consider the difficulties and benefits of travel for a person with dementia. In the early stages of dementia, a person may still enjoy traveling. As the disease progresses, travel may become too overwhelming. ● When you take into account the needs, abilities, safety and preferences of the person with dementia, what's the best mode of travel? Consider the following: ○ Go with the option that provides the most comfort and the least anxiety. ○ Stick with the familiar. Travel to known destinations that involve as few changes in daily routine as possible. Try to visit places that were familiar before the onset of dementia. ○ Keep in mind that there may come a time when traveling is too disorienting or stressful for the person with dementia. Tips for a Safe Trip ● Changes in the environment can trigger wandering. Even for a person in the early stages, new environments may be more difficult to navigate. When possible, avoid places that are highly congested, which can trigger disorientation and confusion. Provide supervision at all times; do not leave a person with dementia alone. ● Have a bag of essentials with you at all times that includes medications, your travel itinerary, a comfortable change of clothes, water, snacks and activities. ● Pack necessary medications, up-to-date medical information, a list of emergency contacts and photocopies of important legal documents. ● Create an itinerary that includes details about each destination. Give copies to emergency contacts at home. Keep a copy of your itinerary with you at all times. ● If you are staying in a hotel, inform the staff ahead of time of your specific needs so they can be prepared to assist you. ● Travel during the time of day that is best for the person with dementia. Documents to Take with You when Traveling ● Doctors' names and contact information ● A list of current medications and dosages ● A list of food or drug allergies ● Names and contact information of friends and family members to call in case of an emergency ● Insurance information (policy number, member name) Air Travel ● Traveling in airports requires plenty of focus and attention. At times, the level of activity can be distracting, overwhelming or difficult to understand for someone with dementia. If you are traveling by plane, keep the following in mind: ○ Avoid scheduling flights that require tight connections. Ask about airport escort services that can help you get from place to place. ○ Inform the airline and airport medical service department ahead of time of your needs to make sure they can help you. Most airlines will work with you to accommodate special needs. ○ If appropriate, tell airport employees, screeners and in-flight crew members that you are traveling with someone who has dementia. ○ Even if walking is not difficult, consider requesting a wheelchair so that an airport employee is assigned to help you get from place to place. ○ Allow for extra time. For more tips and information, visit alz.org/travel .
- Time change can deeply affect those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia
As clocks “fell back” one hour on Sunday, November 2, marking the end of Daylight-Saving Time (DST), most Americans welcomed the extra hour of rest. But for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, this annual adjustment can bring confusion, disrupted routines, and sleepless nights that ripple through households. Experts say that while time change is a small inconvenience for most, it can significantly impact those whose sense of stability depends on predictable daily patterns. For many living with dementia, the end of Daylight Saving Time can intensify a condition known as sundowning —a pattern of increased confusion, agitation, or restlessness that tends to appear in the late afternoon or evening. When darkness arrives earlier, these symptoms can become more severe and harder to manage. “People with dementia often interpret environmental cues to tell time,”said a dementia care specialist with the Alzheimer’s Association. “When it gets dark sooner, their internal sense of order is disrupted, and that can lead to distress.” A structured routine offers comfort and stability for people with dementia. Small shifts—like eating dinner or going to bed an hour earlier or later can cause anxiety or disorientation. The time change can also throw off medication schedules and caregiving routines. “Even subtle changes in timing can lead to a domino effect of confusion,” experts note. “The key is consistency.” The body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, or circadian rhythm , is guided largely by light exposure. When DST ends, earlier sunsets reduce light cues that help regulate sleep patterns, mood, and alertness. For people already struggling with sleep disturbances, this shift can lead to increased nighttime wakefulness and daytime fatigue. Sudden changes in lightning such as darkness falling earlier in the evening—can also cause environmental confusion . Some individuals may not understand why it’s dark when they expect daylight, which can heighten anxiety or agitation. Even without the time change, sleep issues are widespread among people with dementia. Studies show that up to 45% experience ongoing sleep disturbances. Many wake frequently during the night or wander, while caregivers lose sleep themselves trying to keep loved ones safe. In later stages of Alzheimer’s, individuals may spend nearly 40% of nighttime hours awake , and much of the daytime asleep, creating a difficult cycle for both patients and caregivers. The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) provides free, confidential support and guidance for families managing sleep problems and other challenges associated with dementia. Caregivers can also connect with others through ALZConnected —the Association’s online support community—available at alzconnected.org . Additional resources, including local and virtual support groups, can be found at alz.org .









