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World Alzheimer’s Month 2025

Elderly hands holding wild flower daises and buttercups, with another pair of hands helping

Every September, people across the globe unite for World Alzheimer’s Month, a vital campaign to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease, support families affected, and encourage communities to take action. Here in Monmouthshire, Alzheimer’s touches the lives of so many families we meet every day.

At Home Instead Monmouth, Abergavenny & Pontypool, we believe awareness is the first step toward better care, greater compassion, and real change.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, accounting for around 60–70% of all dementia cases in the UK. It’s a progressive neurological condition that affects memory, thinking, behaviour and, eventually, the ability to carry out daily tasks.

It is not a normal part of ageing, but the risk does increase with age. However, younger people can also be affected, with around 5% of those with Alzheimer’s under the age of 65.

Who Can Be Affected?

  • Older adults — The majority of cases occur in people over 65.

  • Younger people (early-onset Alzheimer’s) — Symptoms can begin in the 40s or 50s.

  • Families & carers — Alzheimer’s does not just affect the person diagnosed. Loved ones often take on caring responsibilities, which can be overwhelming without support.

Here in Monmouthshire and surrounding areas, many families find themselves in the same position: balancing work, children, and the increasing care needs of a parent or partner with Alzheimer’s.

Common Signs & Symptoms to Look Out For.

Alzheimer’s develops gradually, and early signs can sometimes be mistaken for stress or “just getting older.” Key things to notice include:

  • Frequent memory loss, especially around recent events.

  • Difficulty following conversations or finding the right words.

  • Becoming confused in familiar places (e.g., forgetting the way home from town).

  • Struggling with daily tasks, like managing bills or cooking.

  • Changes in mood, withdrawal from hobbies or social activities.

  • Trouble with problem-solving or planning.

If you notice these symptoms in a loved one, it’s important to seek medical advice early.

Who Can You Turn to for Support?

Receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can feel frightening and isolating, but support is available:

  • Your GP or Memory Clinic — for initial assessments and ongoing medical care.

  • The Alzheimer’s Society — offers advice, helplines, and local support groups in Wales.

  • Local dementia cafés and peer groups in Monmouthshire.

  • Home care providers like Home Instead — helping families manage the day-to-day challenges with trained dementia Care Professionals.

Why We Raise Awareness Every September?

World Alzheimer’s Month is more than a campaign, it’s a chance to:

  • Challenge stigma — Too often, dementia is misunderstood.

  • Support families — Letting carers know they are not alone.

  • Encourage early diagnosis — So people can access help and plan for the future.

  • Promote better care — Raising awareness helps communities and services improve.

Every conversation, every shared story, and every community event in September contributes to making life better for those living with Alzheimer’s.

How Home Instead Monmouthshire Can Help?

At Home Instead, we provide specialist Alzheimer’s and dementia care designed around the person, not just their condition.

Here’s how we support local families:

  • Familiar surroundings — Care takes place in the comfort of home.

  • Consistency — We match clients with Care Professionals they know and trust.

  • Specialist training — Our team receives ongoing dementia training.

  • Flexibility — From a few hours of companionship a week to full-time live-in care.

  • Family support — We’re here for the whole family, offering advice and reassurance.

“The care Mum receives has given us back precious family time. We’re not just carers anymore, we can be her children again.” Daughter of a Home Instead client in Usk.

Take the Next Step

If you’re worried about a loved one showing signs of Alzheimer’s, or if you’re caring for a family member and feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to do it alone.

Call our friendly team at Home Instead Monmouth, Abergavenny & Pontypool today for an informal chat.

We’ll listen, answer your questions, and explore how we can support your family during World Alzheimer’s Month and beyond.