‘The Longest Day’ 2019 comes to a successful close

Support the cause with activities for Alzheimer’s patients

Each summer, the Alzheimer’s Association holds its annual ‘The Longest Day’ event, which spreads awareness for the disease while raising much-needed funds for research. Although volunteers celebrate on the Summer Solstice—this year, June 21—preparations for the activity-based campaign actually take place all year long.

Here’s how it works:

Participants plan some kind of group activity, such as an exercise class, tennis match, basketball game, poker tournament, arts and craſts lesson, or community party. They market the event throughout the year, then invite friends and family to support the cause on ‘The Longest Day.’

According to the event’s website, organizers “use their creativity and passion to raise funds and awareness for the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.”

Indeed, this year’s festivities were a resounding success

Take a cue from the cause

Although 2019 celebrations have concluded, the Alzheimer’s Association reminds donors that fundraising continues through August. New and returning sponsors can start planning their 2020 events, with official registration kicking off in September.

At SpecialtyRx, we encourage our partners to get inspired. Many participants of ‘The Longest Day’ are moved to act due to their loved ones’ struggle with the disease. But in long-term care, we are touched by those dealing with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other memory-related disorders on the daily.

This summer you can rally staff, volunteers, community members, residents and their families in support of Alzheimer’s research. Whether or not you choose to solicit donations, a dedicated day of outdoor activities or indoor fun helps spread the word about this heartbreaking illness—and the many special people it affects.

From the Fourth of July through Labor Day, summer is an amazing time to entertain residents in otherwise impossible ways. Warm, sunny weather lends itself to garden parties, ice cream socials, seaside excursions, nature walks and other Alzheimer’s-friendly engagements.

Adapt activities to your residents’ specific needs, and as always, deliver the attentive, compassionate care they deserve.