ALZ Alaska Blog

As the seasons change, we have the opportunity to celebrate and honor the rich cultural histories and traditions within our communities. This year, the Alzheimer’s Association is highlighted Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month by exploring major Hispanic and Latino regions around the world. Alzheimer’s Association staff had the chance to learn more about cultures around the world through a written series, Exploring Cultures, which featured information and stories from major Hispanic and Latino countries and regions such as Mexico, the Carribean and Central America.

Honoring Indigenous Cultures

October 14 marks Indigenous Peoples Day, which coincides with the end of Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month. This U.S. holiday celebrates and honors Indigenous American peoples, commemorating their histories, traditions, and contributions. As we transition into November, we also recognize National Native American Heritage Month, which was established in 1990 to celebrate the history, culture, achievements, and traditions of Native Americans, Alaskan Natives, Native Hawaiians, and affiliated Island communities.

If you’re interested in learning more about Native American Heritage Month, the Smithsonian Institute offers a wealth of resources, including events, exhibitions, and podcast episodes focused on Native American heritage and culture. Click here to explore their offerings and enrich your understanding of these diverse cultures.

Embracing Cultural Diversity in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s

Exploring and understanding diverse cultures is not only enriching but also essential in our collective fight to end Alzheimer’s. By recognizing and celebrating the histories, traditions, and contributions of various communities, we foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone impacted by dementia. Together, we can build stronger connections and make meaningful progress toward a future without Alzheimer’s.

Alaska Chapter

Our reach into diverse communities in Alaska continues to grow. Recently, we delivered education programs to Alaska Native constituents at various locations, including Saxman-Ketchikan Senior Services, the Soldotna Senior Center, Mat-Su Senior Services, Pioneer Home, the Anchorage Public Library, and the University of Alaska Southeast.

We continue to grow our partnerships with other local orgnaizations in the fight to end Alzheimer’s and support those facing this disease in our communities. Through partnerships with the Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska and the Alaska Commission on Aging, we can provide education and resources statewide.

We were delighted to kick off the Walk to End Alzheimer’s (WTEA) season in Anchorage, where the Lepquinm Gumilgit Gagoadim Tsimshian Dancers led off the festivities, highlighting the cultural richness and diversity in our community.

Upcoming Learning Opporunities

Join us on November 6th for ALZ Webinar: Addressing Social Determinants of Health and Dementia Risk: Resources for Public Health Agencies. This webinar is a great opportunity for anyone in public health to learn more about the connection between social determinants and dementia risk.