Honoring Memory: Alzheimer’s & Dementia in Our Communities

Memory connects us to who we are. When our elders lose their memory, our families lose part of our living history. This June, during National Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe raises awareness about Alzheimer’s and dementia, protecting the minds and spirits of our elders.

📊 The Crisis in Numbers

• Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s in 2026[^1].
  
• By 2060, the number of AI/AN people living with Alzheimer’s is projected to quadruple[^2].
  
• AI/AN elders face higher risks due to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and limited dementia care access[^3].
  

🌿 The Impact on Indigenous Communities

Alzheimer’s and dementia affect more than individuals—they reshape families and communities. When an elder forgets, it disrupts the circle of cultural transmission: language, stories, and ceremonies. Stigma and silence often prevent families from seeking help.

⚠️ Recognizing the Signs of Dementia

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
  
• Confusion with time or place
  
• Trouble following conversations or instructions
  
• Withdrawal from family and community
  
• Mood changes, depression, or aggression
  

🌎 Pathways to Prevention & Care

• Healthy Lifestyle: Traditional diets, exercise, and strong social connections reduce risk.
  
• Early Diagnosis: Screening for dementia symptoms ensures earlier support.
  
• Community Care: Sharing caregiving responsibilities prevents burnout.
  
• Cultural Healing: Storytelling, drumming, and ceremonies support memory and identity.
  

💜 What You Can Do

• For yourself: Stay mentally and physically active, eat traditional foods, and seek screenings.
  
• For families: Be patient, use reminders, and keep elders connected to community.
  
• For community: Build caregiving circles, reduce stigma, and honor elders regardless of memory loss.
  

📌 Resources for Alzheimer’s & Dementia

1. Alzheimer’s Association – alz.org | Helpline: 1-800-272-3900
   
2. CDC Healthy Brain Initiative – cdc.gov/aging
   
3. National Institute on Aging – nia.nih.gov
   
4. National Indian Council on Aging (NICOA) – nicoa.org
   
5. Crisis Text Line (24/7) – Text “NATIVE” to 741741 | crisistextline.org/native
   

🌅 Closing

Even when memory fades, love remains. By caring for our elders, we protect our circle.

Together, we heal.