Throughout September, FISH of SanCap will recognize World Alzheimer’s Month by raising awareness of dementia, encouraging earlier conversations about diagnosis and reminding the community that support and resources are available close to home.
Observed throughout September, World Alzheimer’s Month is a global campaign led by Alzheimer’s Disease International to raise awareness, address stigma and improve understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. World Alzheimer’s Day, observed Monday, Sept. 21, serves as the campaign’s main focal point.
The 2026 campaign theme, “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters,” focuses on the benefits of seeking an early diagnosis. The campaign seeks to address persistent stigma and low awareness that can prevent people from seeking answers when they first notice signs of cognitive change.
For FISH, the month provides another opportunity to bring those conversations into the community. Throughout September, FISH will distribute purple Alzheimer’s awareness bracelets and purple rubber ducks to neighbors through the FISH Food Pantry, Smile Box deliveries and Meals-by-FISH. Purple is widely used to show support for Alzheimer’s awareness, and the items offer a simple way to encourage conversation and let families affected by dementia know they have support within their community.
“Families often have questions long before they know exactly what is happening or what their next step should be,” said Erika Arnowitz, FISH Senior Services Director. “Talking about those concerns and seeking information early can help families better understand their options and connect with resources. During World Alzheimer’s Month, FISH wants to encourage those conversations and remind our neighbors that they have somewhere local to turn.”
Arnowitz is a Certified Dementia Practitioner through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, a credential she earned through specialized dementia care training. Her training strengthens FISH’s ability to recognize the needs of older adults experiencing cognitive changes and help individuals, families and caregivers identify resources that may be useful to them.
FISH Senior Services provide several points of connection for older adults on Sanibel and Captiva. Programs include Meals-by-FISH, Smile Boxes, reassurance calls, non-emergency transportation, Friendly Faces luncheons, medical equipment loans and referrals to other community resources. These services help older adults stay connected while also giving families and caregivers another source of local support.
World Alzheimer’s Month is recognized around the world through educational programs, memory walks, community events, fundraising efforts and other activities designed to increase understanding of dementia. Individuals can also participate by wearing purple, sharing reliable information and learning more about the signs of dementia and the value of seeking an assessment when concerns arise.
“Awareness can start with something very small,” Arnowitz said. “A purple bracelet or one of our ducks might prompt someone to ask a question, share a personal experience or think about a family member who may need support. Those conversations matter because they can help people feel more comfortable reaching out and asking for help.”
FISH encourages community members to use World Alzheimer’s Month as an opportunity to learn more, check in with older family members and neighbors, and support those living with dementia and the people who care for them.
For more information about FISH Senior Services, contact Erika Arnowitz at erika@fishofsancap.org or 239-472-4775.
Additional information and resources for World Alzheimer’s Month are available through Alzheimer’s Disease International, https://www.alzint.org/.
