WHEREAS, Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder affecting over 164,000 Virginians and gradually impairing memory, cognitive abilities, and the ability to carry out simple tasks; and

WHEREAS, early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is essential to accessing timely treatment, care, and support, including both pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches; and

WHEREAS, in addition to medical treatments and supports, social connection, dementia-friendly environments, meaningful activities, rehabilitation, and respite services are essential to promoting independence and enhancing the quality of life for people living with dementia and their caregivers; and

WHEREAS, loved ones of people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia provide more than 670 million hours of unpaid care worth $14.2 billion each year, underscoring the importance of providing a strong support system for both older Virginians and their caregivers to promote the health of our Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth remains committed to supporting individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and their caregivers by providing access to information, caregiving assistance, and connections to community resources and advocacy organizations through the Commonwealth of Virginia's Dementia State Plan;

NOW THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby proclaim September 2026 to be ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of our citizens.