World Alzheimer's Day 2026: Every Memory Matters
21 September marks World Alzheimer's Day, a global opportunity to raise awareness of dementia and reflect on the impact it has on millions of people, families and communities.
At Inspire North, dementia is not something we only talk about once a year. Through our dementia services across West Yorkshire, we work alongside people living with dementia, their families and carers every day, helping people to live well throughout their dementia journey.
Dementia affects far more than memory. It can change relationships, routines, confidence and independence. For many people, a diagnosis brings uncertainty, but it also highlights the importance of understanding, connection and support.
Our colleagues working within Bradford Dementia Hub, Young Dementia Leeds and our wider dementia services see first-hand the difference that information, advice, peer support and meaningful activities can make to someone's quality of life. They also see the extraordinary contribution made by families and carers who support their loved ones every step of the way.
Recognising Our Colleagues Who Care
World Alzheimer's Day is also an opportunity to acknowledge that dementia touches the lives of many of our own colleagues.
Behind the scenes, members of our workforce may be supporting a parent, grandparent, partner, sibling or friend living with dementia. Balancing caring responsibilities alongside work can be emotionally and practically challenging. There are appointments to attend, difficult conversations to have and moments of uncertainty to navigate. To those colleagues, we want you to know that you are not alone.
Your compassion, patience and dedication often go unseen, but they are deeply valued. We recognise the vital role that unpaid carers play and the pressures that can come with supporting someone affected by dementia.
Colleague Perspective
“For the last 18 months, I have been supporting my mum as she lives with Alzheimer's. Becoming a carer has impacted every aspect of my life and has given me a much deeper understanding of the challenges that family carers face every day.
It has also reinforced just how important it is that carers receive the right support, advice and opportunities for respite. This is something our colleagues at Young Dementia Leeds have been championing for many years as they work alongside carers and families, advocating for improved respite provision and recognising the vital role that carers play in supporting people living with dementia.”
- Will Goode, Director of Operations
Building Dementia-Friendly Communities
One of the most powerful ways we can support people living with dementia is through understanding.
A dementia-friendly community is one where people feel included, respected and able to continue living meaningful lives. Sometimes the smallest actions make the biggest difference: taking time to listen, showing patience, offering reassurance or simply having a conversation.
Together, we can challenge stigma, increase understanding and create communities where everyone feels they belong.
How You Can Get Involved
This World Alzheimer's Day, why not:
- Take a few minutes to learn more about dementia.
- Start a conversation with colleagues, friends or family.
- Show support to someone who may have caring responsibilities.
- Reflect on how we can all contribute to more inclusive and compassionate communities.
Every Memory Matters
On World Alzheimer's Day, we celebrate people living with dementia, recognise the families and carers who support them, and thank the colleagues who work tirelessly to make a positive difference every day.
Together, we can continue building a future where people affected by dementia are supported to live well, remain connected, and are treated with dignity, respect and understanding.
Kira Moxon-Lumb
Director of Operations