World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 – Why It Matters More Than Ever at Barchester

 

What Is World Alzheimer’s Day and Why Is It Important?

World Alzheimer’s Day, observed annually on 21st September, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. 

In 2025, the significance of this day is greater than ever, as the number of people affected continues to rise and the need for understanding, support, and research intensifies. According to Alzheimer's UK, there are an estimated 982,000 people with dementia in the UK, but more than a third of people with the condition do not have a diagnosis. The number is expected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040.

Alzheimer’s Day serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by individuals and families living with Alzheimer’s, and the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. For those seeking to understand the early signs, our guide on what are the early signs and symptoms of dementia might be helpful.

The global “Go Purple” campaign theme encourages everyone to wear purple and share stories, helping to break down stigma and foster understanding.

From Awareness to Action: The Global Impact of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions worldwide. And the impact is felt not only by those living with the disease, but also by their families, carers, and communities. 

In fact, someone in the world develops dementia every 3 seconds. There were over 55 million people worldwide living with dementia in 2020, with this number expected to almost double every 20 years, reaching 78 million in 2030 and 139 million in 2050. 

World Alzheimer’s Day exists as a call to action for governments, healthcare providers, and the public to prioritise dementia care, invest in research, and support those affected. 

Raising Awareness Throughout World Alzheimer’s Month

September is recognised as World Alzheimer’s Month, providing an extended opportunity to educate, advocate, and support. Throughout the month, Barchester homes support their local communities with events, information sharing, and encouraging conversations about dementia. Support is available year-round, and it’s important to help raise awareness – which is crucial for early diagnosis, and can significantly improve outcomes. If you’re concerned about memory loss or other symptoms in yourself or a loved one, learn more about how to get a dementia diagnosis.

Why Purple Is the Colour of Alzheimer’s Awareness

Purple symbolises dignity, courage, and hope - qualities embodied by those living with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones. The colour is used globally to unite communities and highlight the importance of ongoing support and research.

The Role of Awareness in Reducing Stigma and Misconceptions

Despite growing awareness, misconceptions about dementia persist. World Alzheimer’s Day is an opportunity to challenge myths and promote accurate information. For more on this, read our article on common myths surrounding dementia.

Everyone’s journey with Alzheimer’s is unique, and there are different challenges for each diagnosis. For example, behaviours vary in each individual and can change as the disease progresses – putting additional pressure on carers and loved ones.

The State of Alzheimer’s Disease Research in 2025

Research into Alzheimer’s disease is advancing rapidly, with new treatments and diagnostic tools offering hope for the future. In 2025, scientists are making strides in understanding the causes of Alzheimer’s, developing drugs to slow progression, and exploring ways to remove harmful proteins from the brain. 

At Barchester, our team of experts develop training for our care teams around new practices and the latest technologies. We worked with Leeds Beckett University to develop dementia e-learning for all of our care home staff.

Promising Advances and Ongoing Challenges

Whilst there have been promising developments, challenges remain. Funding for research, access to new treatments, and support for families are ongoing priorities. Collaboration between governments, charities, and care providers is essential to drive progress.

At Barchester, we’re committed to providing the best quality care for our residents and their families. Our facilities are based on hospitality, comfortable surroundings and high-quality care, and we embrace the latest technologies, research and proven techniques that are designed to bring out the strengths of people with dementia care needs.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Brain Health

Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, personalised care, and better planning for the future. Maintaining brain health through lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and social engagement can help reduce risk and improve quality of life.

How Barchester Champions Specialist Dementia Care

Barchester is committed to providing exceptional dementia care across the UK. Our dedicated, purposely-designed areas of our homes that offer tailored support, a secure environment, meaningful activities, and trained teams dedicated to enhancing the lives of residents.

Tailored Support Across Our Memory Lane Communities

Each Memory Lane Community is designed to meet the unique needs of individuals living with dementia. Personalised care plans, familiar environments, and compassionate staff ensure residents feel safe, valued, and understood.

The communities are tailored environments, created to support way-finding and independence. There are contrasting colours and adapted lighting – all proven to support those living with dementia.

Barchester homes also have adaptive cutlery and drinkware to support dignified dining, and mealtimes are never rushed. 

It’s important that we understand each person in our homes, their life stories and what matters to them, in order to provide truly tailored support.

Meaningful Activities That Enrich Daily Life

Engagement in meaningful activities is central to our approach. In many of our homes, there is everything from music therapy and art sessions to reminiscence groups and gentle exercise. Our programmes are designed to stimulate, comfort, and bring joy. 

We use technology that's proven to improve communication and interaction, such as robotic pets which are comforting, and interactive light table games to increase cognitive function.

Our dedicated activity coordinators spend time getting to know each of the residents and their families before creating a tailored activities programme focussed on maximising well-being, independence and social engagement.

Highly Trained Dementia Care Teams Across the UK

Our teams receive specialist training in dementia care, enabling them to provide expert support and respond to changing needs. In fact, all staff in Barchester homes receive a form of dementia training, regardless of role.

Our teams receive dedicated training to understand the different types of dementia, and how the symptoms may present themselves for each person. They can support residents throughout all stages of the condition – helping to manage symptoms wherever possible. 

Led by our dedicated dementia care specialists, we ensure every member of staff – no matter the services their home provides – receives expert training in dementia care, so that every person living with dementia is supported with understanding, dignity and excellence.

Supporting Families Living with Alzheimer’s at Barchester

Barchester recognises that Alzheimer’s affects entire families. We offer emotional and practical guidance, helping loved ones navigate the challenges of dementia.

For example, we collaborate with residents and their family and friends to organise group and individual meetings which encourage everyone to express their views, make suggestions and ask questions, as well as keeping families up-to-date with home news. These meetings are also a great opportunity to go through your loved one’s care plan, to ensure that they’re maintaining independence and choice in every aspect of daily life.  

We ensure that families are always kept involved in their loved ones' care and any decisions which are made. 

Emotional and Practical Guidance for Loved Ones

Our support extends beyond residents to their families, offering advice, counselling, and resources to help manage the emotional impact of Alzheimer’s.

Creating a Sense of Community and Shared Understanding

We foster a sense of community, encouraging families to connect, share experiences, and support one another. Events, support groups, and open communication are integral to our philosophy.

 

How Can You Support Alzheimer’s Awareness This September?

Everyone can play a part in raising awareness and supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s.

Participating in Events and Sharing Personal Stories

Join local events, wear purple, and share your story to help break down barriers and inspire others. 

Advocating for Better Research Funding and Resources

Support charities, advocate for increased research funding, and encourage policymakers to prioritise dementia care.

Why Barchester’s Dementia Care Makes a Difference Year-Round?

At Barchester, our commitment to dementia care goes beyond World Alzheimer’s Day. We strive to make a difference every day, providing compassionate support, innovative programmes, and expert care for residents and families.