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Dementia Awareness Week

Join the fight during Dementia Awareness Week, raising awareness and supporting those whose lives are touched by dementia. Together, we can make a difference!

Monday

17–23

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEWeek of Third Monday in May

OBSERVED INUnited Kingdom

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to make a difference on May 13 as we launch into Dementia Awareness Week! This annual event, originating in the United Kingdom as part of the Alzheimer's Society's campaign to raise awareness, has grown into an immensely impactful international endeavor. Despite the challenges, this week represents hope and unity. With a myriad of activities and events designed to educate, support, and shed light on the condition affecting more than 50 million people worldwide, it encourages everyone to get involved. Together, we can increase understanding, reduce stigma, and show solidarity with those affected by dementia. Let's take action and make this Dementia Awareness Week even more impactful!

TIMELINE

Dementia Awareness Week Timeline

Alzheimer's Society Formation

The Alzheimer's Society, a British care and research charity for people with dementia and their carers, was founded.

Recognition of Dementia

Dementia began to be recognized as a serious health issue in the 1980s globally.

Dementia Awareness Week Initiation

Alzheimer's Society started the tradition of Dementia Awareness Week to bring attention to the disease and its impact.

First Dementia Research Conference

The Alzheimer's Society held its first research conference, focusing on dementia, showcasing the need for scientific exploration into treatment and cures.

Global Dementia Awareness

The G8 Dementia Summit held in London recognizes dementia as a global concern, leading to further international participation in Dementia Awareness Week.

Virtual Dementia Awareness Week

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dementia Awareness Week events move online, reaching a wider audience and maintaining its impact.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Dementia Awareness Week

Host an educational event

You could organise a webinar or workshop focusing on dementia. Invite experts to talk about the disease, its effects, and various treatment plans. Such an event will increase awareness and understanding among attendees.

INITIATE

Initiate a fundraising walk

Set up a fundraising walk or run in your local community. Not only will this help raise much-needed funds for dementia research, but it also gets the community involved in a fun, active way.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer your time

Many organizations require volunteers to help care for people suffering from dementia. Use this week to lend a helping hand and see firsthand the impact this disease has on patients and their families.

Share personal stories

If you feel comfortable doing so, sharing your own experiences with dementia can be a powerful way to raise awareness. Whether it’s a loved one you’ve seen affected or your own personal journey, your story can encourage others to get involved.

HOST

Host an art exhibition

Art can be a powerful way to express the difficult emotions associated with dementia. Hosting an exhibition of art created by those affected by the disease can help raise awareness and foster a sense of community.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Dementia Awareness Week is Important

Promotes Personal Storytelling and Expression

One of the most impactful aspects of Dementia Awareness Week is the sharing of personal stories by those affected by dementia. Be it through recounting personal experiences, or expressing emotions through art exhibitions, these narratives can inspire emotions and respect, contributing significantly to the awareness and understanding of this matter.

Creates Awareness and Understanding

Dementia Awareness Week helps educate people about dementia, its effects, and the ways it can be managed. It dispels myths and misconceptions, increasing understanding and empathy towards those suffering from the condition. This not only aids in the fight against dementia but also reduces the stigma associated with it.

Encourages Community Participation

This week provides opportunities for the general public to get involved in a range of activities such as fundraisers, walks, and volunteering. Engaging local communities in this compassionate endeavor fosters solidarity and collective responsibility for creating a more dementia-friendly society.

Related holidays

World Alzheimer’s Month

Make a difference this World Alzheimer's Month - spread awareness, donate to research and support those affected by the disease.

World Alzheimer’s Day

Join us in raising awareness for World Alzheimer's Day - spread the word and show your support to those living with dementia and their caregivers!

Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Staff Education Week

It's Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Staff Education Week - a perfect time to recognize and support those who provide care for those with memory loss.

Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

Join us this month to raise awareness for Alzheimer's and Brain Health - together we can make a difference!

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