The Longest Day 

Supporting those impacted by Alzheimer’s 

This year the summer solstice falls on June 21, when there are the most daylight hours in the 2022 calendar. This day marks the astronomical start of summer for the northern half of the globe and is often thought of as a day to celebrate. For example, the Swedish people mark summer’s start by eating fresh strawberries and some northern countries build bonfires to light the night.  

Spreading awareness  

The Alzheimer’s Association also celebrates this day in a very special way. The Longest Day – centered around the summer solstice – is used to spread awareness and raise funds to fight the darkness of this disease and other dementia. Thousands of people from all over come together using their passion and creativity to honor those with Alzheimer’s and their caretakers, and do what they can to advance care, support and research efforts.  

At WayForth, we are proud partners of the Alzheimer’s Association and teams from around our offices will be supporting efforts large and small on The Longest Day.  

Erin Smith, General Manager, for WayForth in Florida, is the co-chairman of The Longest Day in Region 18. She’s been working with Alzheimer’s groups and senior causes for five years and got involved because of her family’s history with the disease.  

“Most people know about the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The Longest Day is a great opportunity to bring fun to the awareness and fundraising cause for Alzheimer’s year-round,” she said. “It’s an impactful way to make a difference and every little bit counts.”  

Erin lost her grandmother Betty to the disease and history shows that Alzheimer’s runs in her family. “I understand that my mother, sisters and I could also be impacted, and this makes it a personal cause for me,” she said.  

Being creative  

One of the most unique aspects of The Longest Day is that supporters can design their own fundraising event. Participants can do something individually, with a group, online with friends or a combination. Ideas include a neighborhood bake sale, an online game challenge, a virtual support walk, an art auction, or even a karaoke contest. The sky’s the limit and the more people you can include, the better.  

Plus, your event or participation doesn’t have to be exactly on the summer solstice. That day is just a rallying point, but those interested are encouraged to pick a day when it’s most convenient for them.  

During The Longest Day business and senior communities can also get involved. A national dance studio is organizing their own event and participating restaurants will be encouraging patrons to “round-up” their bill and donate the overage to the Alzheimer’s Association. In past years, senior community activities have included such events as a Rock-A-Thon and a car wash.  

If you don’t have time to organize something for The Longest Day, you can easily set up a fundraising page on your favorite social media or honor a loved one or mark a special family celebration such as a wedding anniversary or milestone birthday by making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.  

“The Longest Day is also a chance to become aware about Alzheimer’s and connect people who are affected and care about this disease,” said Erin. “We fight on the day with the most light.” 

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month 

Quick facts about Alzheimer’s:  

• 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia 

• More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s  

• 1 in 3 seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia  

To learn more about The Longest Day and how you can support a great cause, visit The Longest Day and text 2ENDALZ to 51555.

If you have any questions, call us at 1.844.WAYFORTH or email us at info@wayforth.com. We look forward to connecting!

Sources:  

act.alz.org 

almanac.com