June marks Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, an important time dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. This observance encourages individuals, families, healthcare providers, and communities to engage in meaningful conversations about brain health, support those affected by cognitive decline, and promote ongoing research and education.

This month reminds us that brain health matters at every age, and that early education, prevention, and access to mental health services are key components of long-term wellbeing. At Integrated Healthcare System (IHCS), our mission centers on increasing access to primary and behavioral healthcare, especially for underserved communities—because healthy minds are just as vital as healthy bodies.

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behavior and personality. It is the most common cause of dementia—a general term used to describe a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 55 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, a number expected to grow significantly in the coming decades.

In the United States alone, over 6 million people are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, making it the sixth leading cause of death in the country. Unfortunately, unlike many other diseases, Alzheimer’s remains without a cure, and it cannot yet be prevented or slowed. This reality makes awareness, early detection, and supportive care all the more critical.

The Importance of Early Detection

Detecting Alzheimer’s disease in its earliest stages can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected. Early signs often include:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily activities, such as forgetting important dates or asking for the same information repeatedly.
• Difficulty planning or solving problems.
• Confusion about time or place.
• Challenges with speaking or writing.
• Changes in mood, personality, or social withdrawal.

Recognizing these symptoms early allows individuals and families to seek medical evaluation and diagnosis sooner, which can lead to earlier intervention, better symptom management, and access to supportive resources. The Alzheimer’s Association highlights that early diagnosis also gives families more time to plan for future care, make informed decisions about treatment options, and explore participation in clinical trials that could benefit medical research.

Supporting Brain Health in Our Community

At IHCS, we focus on prevention, mental wellness, and healthcare access—essential pillars of brain health. While we do not treat Alzheimer’s directly, our primary care and behavioral health services help address many related challenges that affect cognitive wellness.

Here’s how we support brain health across Palm Beach County:

• Behavioral Health Services: We provide counseling, therapy, and mental health support for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress—all of which can affect memory and brain function over time.
• Chronic Disease Management: We support patients managing diabetes, hypertension, and other conditions that impact overall brain and body health.
• Community Education: Through outreach, workshops, and resources, we educate the public on the importance of mental health, stress reduction, and healthy habits that protect the brain.
• Social Support & Navigation Services: Our HOST program and outreach teams assist vulnerable populations—especially individuals experiencing homelessness—in accessing healthcare, shelter, and wellness resources.

How You Can Get Involved During Brain Awareness Month

Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month presents many opportunities for individuals and communities to get involved and make a difference. Here are some simple yet impactful ways you can show support:

1. Volunteer and Advocate: Consider volunteering your time to support local Alzheimer’s organizations or advocate for policies that promote brain health, research funding, and caregiver support.
2. Educate Yourself and Others: Increasing knowledge about Alzheimer’s helps dispel myths and reduce stigma. Share reliable information with friends and family, such as the “10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s” guide, to foster understanding and early detection.
3. Make a Donation to IHCS: Your gift helps IHCS expand services like mental health counseling, primary care, and community outreach—especially for low-income individuals, the unhoused, and those facing systemic barriers to care.

Note: Donations to IHCS directly support our general operations and community programs—not Alzheimer’s-specific services. Your contributions help build a healthier, more equitable Palm Beach County.

👉 Make a Donation Now

IHCS’s Commitment to Brain Health

While we may not treat Alzheimer’s disease directly, we champion overall brain and behavioral health through affordable, accessible care. Our work is rooted in prevention, early intervention, and long-term support—especially for those most at risk of falling through the cracks.

Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact this disease has on individuals, families, and communities. By increasing awareness, supporting caregivers, and advocating for continued research, we can work together toward better care and, ultimately, a cure.

This June, we invite you to join us in participating in awareness events, educating yourself and others, and supporting programs that provide hope and help for those affected by Alzheimer’s. Together, we can make a meaningful difference—one person, one family, and one community at a time.

To learn more about the HOST program, access resources, or make a donation, please visit our website.