This September thousands of Kiwis will be going the extra mile for the 60,000 people living with dementia in NZ.
Launched in 2012, World Alzheimers Month aims to raise awareness of dementia and challenge the stigma associated with
the condition.
Alzheimers New Zealand is joining over 50 other organisations around the world in calling on people to participate in
its seventh annual event.
As part of the month, Memory Walks are being held nationwide between September 15-29, and everyone will be encouraged to
wear purple on World Alzheimers Day (September 21).
Dementia is one of NZ’s most significant and growing healthcare challenges. 4 out of 5 Kiwis are affected by dementia in
some way, and the number of people living with dementia in New Zealand is expected to nearly triple to about 170,000 by
2050.
Alzheimers NZ chief executive, Catherine Hall, says the Memory Walks are a great way to raise awareness of the dementia
challenge facing New Zealand.
“Memory Walks allow the community to show their support for people with dementia and their families/whānau, friends and
care partners.
“World Alzheimers Month is a powerful tool to raise awareness and campaign for change, but it's also a time of
reflection for Kiwis who are affected by dementia.
Ms Hall says even though dementia is one of NZ’s most significant healthcare and social service challenges, there is
very little discussion or acknowledgement of its everyday impacts.
“As a society, we must do more to support people with dementia to live well and play a full and meaningful role in their
communities.”
Join your local Memory Walk this September. To register, visit: alzheimers.org.nz/memorywalk
ENDS