How the Alzheimer’s Association Changes Lives Every Day

Introduction

The Alzheimer’s Association is more than a name tied to a purple walk each fall—it’s a lifeline, a research powerhouse, and a relentless advocate for change. Every day, around the clock, it touches lives in ways most never see. If you or someone you love is facing Alzheimer’s, the help you need may already be just a phone call away.

John’s Story: A Life Changed at 2 AM

"John never thought a phone call would change his life. But when he reached out to the Alzheimer’s helpline at 2 AM, the person on the other end helped him find a path forward."

Overwhelmed after his wife’s diagnosis, John dialed the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline in desperation. What he found was more than answers—he found hope. He was guided to a local support group, connected with a care navigator, and eventually became a volunteer himself. That single call became a turning point.

A Network of Support for Families

1. 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900)

Staffed by trained specialists and master’s-level clinicians, this free service offers confidential support and information—anytime, day or night.

2. Care Navigation

Personalized guidance helps families create care plans, access local services, and navigate the complexities of dementia care.

3. Local Chapters

Across the U.S., local Alzheimer’s Association chapters provide in-person and virtual education sessions, support groups, and community engagement.

4. ALZNavigator™

A digital tool that walks caregivers and patients through next steps after a diagnosis, tailored to their unique situations.

5. Clinical Trial Finder

By joining clinical trials, individuals contribute to vital research. The Association helps match participants with appropriate studies through a secure, personalized tool.

Global Research with Real-World Impact

The Alzheimer’s Association is a leading nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s and dementia science. Their global impact includes:

• Over $360 million invested in more than 1,000 active projects across 50+ countries.
  
  
• Funding breakthrough studies in early detection, treatment, and prevention.
  
  
• Leading the International Society to Advance Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment (ISTAART).
  
  

Driving Change Through Public Policy

1. Advocacy at Every Level

From Capitol Hill to local governments, the Alzheimer’s Association pushes for better funding, policies, and protections for those living with dementia.

2. The Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM)

This advocacy arm works directly with lawmakers to increase federal research funding and expand access to care services.

3. National Alzheimer’s Plan

They play a critical role in shaping and updating the U.S. National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease, working toward the goal of preventing and effectively treating Alzheimer’s by 2025.

How You Can Help Beyond the Walk

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is an amazing moment—but the fight continues every day. You can support the Alzheimer’s Association in a variety of ways:

• Monthly Giving: Provide year-round impact with recurring donations.
  
  
• Volunteer: Share your skills, from event planning to office support.
  
  
• Fundraise Your Way: Create personal campaigns for birthdays, tributes, or community events.
  
  
• Share Your Story: Inspire others and spread awareness by sharing your journey.
  
  
• Corporate Partnerships: Encourage your employer to match donations or sponsor events.
  
  

Conclusion

The Alzheimer’s Association changes lives every day—not just during Walk season, but every hour of every day. Whether it's a 2 AM phone call, a caregiver’s first support group, or a family finding hope in research, their work is constant and vital.

💜 Support the Alzheimer’s Association—not just during walk season, but every day of the year. Learn more and get involved at alz.org.