World Alzheimer’s Day 2025: Meaning, History, Theme, Cases in India, Treatment

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 will be observed on 21 September with the theme “Ask About Dementia. Ask About Alzheimer’s” to raise global awareness about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The day highlights rising cases worldwide and in India, promotes early diagnosis, reduces stigma, and emphasizes treatment options and caregiver support.

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025: Meaning, History, Theme, Cases in India, Treatment

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 will be observed on 21 September 2025. It is a global day dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The day reminds people about the growing impact of this condition on individuals, families, and societies. It also highlights the importance of early detection, treatment, and support systems.

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the leading causes of dementia worldwide. Millions of families are directly affected by memory loss, confusion, and the emotional and financial challenges that follow. Observing World Alzheimer Day 2025 encourages everyone to learn, discuss, and support efforts to reduce stigma and improve care.

Also Read: List Of International National Days 2025 Month-Wise List

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 is going to fall on Sunday, 21st September 2025. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder. It slowly damages memory, thinking, and reasoning. Over time, it affects the ability to perform daily tasks.

It is important to note that Alzheimer’s is not just normal aging. While memory lapses are common with age, Alzheimer’s disease causes a significant decline. It is the most common cause of dementia, but not the only one. Other conditions like vascular dementia or Lewy body dementia also exist. Here we have covered a gist of the World Alzheimer’s Day 2025:

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World Alzheimer’s Day 2025
Aspect Details
Date Sunday, 21 September 2025
Purpose To raise global awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and reduce stigma around dementia
Condition Highlighted Alzheimer’s disease – a progressive brain disorder affecting memory, thinking, and reasoning
Key Message Alzheimer’s is not normal ageing; it causes significant decline in cognitive functions
Other Related Conditions Vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and other forms of dementia
Main Features / Symptoms – Memory loss that disrupts daily life – Difficulty in problem solving or decision making – Confusion with time, place, or identity – Trouble in speaking or writing – Mood and personality changes
Global Significance Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia worldwide; affects millions of families
Awareness Role of 2025 Day Encourage early diagnosis, reduce stigma, support caregivers, and promote global action

World Alzheimer’s Day History & Background

World Alzheimer’s Day was first introduced in 1994 by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI). It marked the 10th anniversary of the organisation’s founding. Since then, 21 September is observed each year to spread awareness and call for global action.

The need for such a day became clear as dementia cases grew across the world. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for the majority of dementia cases. Before this initiative, there was very little public awareness about the condition. Families often suffered in silence.

Over the years, World Alzheimer’s Day has grown into a movement. Governments, NGOs, health organisations, and communities take part in campaigns. Activities include seminars, walks, health check-ups, and awareness drives. In 2012, Alzheimer’s Month was also introduced, extending awareness across the entire month of September.

Also Read: FDA Approval For Donanemab A New Alzheimer’s Drug

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 Theme

The theme for World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 is “Ask About Dementia. Ask About Alzheimer’s.” The theme underlines the power of asking questions. Many people hesitate to talk about memory loss or behavioural changes. This silence delays diagnosis and treatment. By asking simple questions about symptoms, risks, or care. Families can encourage early detection.

The theme also reminds healthcare providers to create safe spaces for discussion. When communities engage in conversations, stigma reduces. World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 aims to make dialogue a normal part of life.

Global Alzheimer’s Disease Cases

Dementia is now one of the leading public health concerns. According to recent data, over 55 million people worldwide live with dementia. A large share of these cases is due to Alzheimer’s disease.

Every year, millions of new cases are added. With populations ageing, the number of people affected is expected to rise sharply. By 2050, estimates suggest that 139 million people may live with dementia. The economic cost is also high, crossing $1 trillion annually.

Here is the table carrying an overview of the Global Alzheimer’s Disease Cases as of the year 2021:

Global Alzheimer’s Disease Cases
Category Data Source
Total Prevalence 57 million people WHO Global Health Estimates, 2021 
Percentage in LMICs Over 60% of cases WHO Global Health Estimates, 2021 
New Cases Annually Nearly 10 million WHO Global Health Estimates, 2021
Global Deaths (2021) 1.8 million deaths WHO Global Health Estimates, 2021 
Disability Burden Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias ranked as the 7th leading cause of death globally in 2021 WHO Global Health Estimates, 2021

 

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Mentioned in the table below are the country-wise Alzheimer’s Disease Cases as of the year 2021: 

Global Alzheimer’s Disease Cases Country-Wise
Rank Country Prevalence Rate Estimated Number of Cases Notes
1 Japan 2,637 per 100,000 ~3.5 million Highest prevalence globally; ageing population and high life expectancy contribute. 
2 Italy 2,387 per 100,000 ~1.4 million An ageing population and improved diagnosis rates.
3 Germany 2,337 per 100,000 ~1.9 million High elderly population and advanced healthcare system
4 Greece 2,088 per 100,000 ~0.3 million The Mediterranean diet may offer some protection; however, lifestyle changes are affecting trends.
5 Monaco 2,031 per 100,000 ~0.01 million High life expectancy and an ageing population. 
6 Portugal 1,915 per 100,000 ~0.2 million Ageing population and lifestyle factors. 
7 San Marino 1,847 per 100,000 ~0.01 million Small population with a high proportion of elderly individuals. 
8 Sweden 1,787 per 100,000 ~0.9 million High life expectancy and comprehensive healthcare services.
9 Spain 1,700 per 100,000 ~0.8 million An ageing population and advancements in dementia research.
10 France 1,600 per 100,000 ~1.0 million An ageing population and increased awareness.

Alzheimer’s Cases In India

India is witnessing a rapid rise in dementia cases. Studies show that about 7.4% of people aged 60 years and above are living with dementia. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for the majority of these cases.

This translates to millions of families affected across urban and rural areas. Rural regions often lack access to medical facilities, making detection and treatment harder. Social stigma also prevents families from seeking help early. Caregivers experience high levels of stress and poor mental health. The growing number of Alzheimer’s cases in India makes World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 especially important to raise awareness and push for stronger healthcare responses.

Provided here is the table that carries the stats of the Alzheimer’s Cases In India as of the year 2023: 

Alzheimer’s Cases In India
Category Data Source
Prevalence (60+ years) 7.4% of the adult population aged 60 and above Study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia Journal, 2023
Total Cases (60+ years) Approximately 8.8 million individuals Study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia Journal, 2023
Active Cases (2019) Approximately 3.69 million active cases NIScPR Bulletin, March 2023 
Urban vs Rural Prevalence Higher prevalence in urban areas compared to rural areas Study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia Journal, 2023

Check the table below for the Alzheimer’s Cases in India, state-wise, as of the year 2023: 

Alzheimer’s Cases In India State-Wise
Rank State Prevalence Rate Estimated Number of Cases Notes
1 Kerala 9.3% ~1.1 million Highest prevalence among states; ageing population and urbanization contribute. 
2 Goa 8.5% ~0.15 million High literacy rates and ageing population. 
3 Maharashtra 7.8% ~0.9 million Large elderly population and urban centres. 
4 Tamil Nadu 7.5% ~0.8 million High literacy rates and healthcare access.
5 Uttarakhand 7.2% ~0.2 million An ageing population in hilly regions. 
6 Punjab 7.0% ~0.3 million Urbanization and lifestyle factors. 
7 Himachal Pradesh 6.8% ~0.1 million An ageing population in mountainous areas.
8 Delhi 6.5% ~0.5 million Urbanization and increased awareness.
9 West Bengal 6.2% ~0.4 million Ageing population and healthcare access. 
10 Andhra Pradesh 6.0% ~0.3 million Rural areas with limited healthcare access.

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Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment

As of 2025, there is no complete cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, progress has been made in treatment options.

Two drugs, lecanemab (Leqembi) and donanemab (Kisunla), are approved for early Alzheimer’s disease. These medicines target amyloid plaques in the brain, which are linked to the condition. Clinical trials show they slow the decline in memory and thinking abilities in the early stages.

Other medicines help manage symptoms. Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine can reduce memory loss, confusion, and behavioural problems. Doctors also recommend lifestyle changes, counselling, and therapies to support patients.

Research continues to look for better treatments. Recent studies explore new drug targets like DNA repair pathways and inflammation control. Non-drug interventions such as brain exercises, diet, and physical activity are also important.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 observed?

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 will be observed on Sunday, 21 September 2025.

What is the theme for World Alzheimer’s Day 2025?

The theme for World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 is “Ask About Dementia. Ask About Alzheimer’s.”

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, behaviour, and daily functioning.

How many people are affected by Alzheimer’s worldwide?

More than 55 million people globally live with dementia, most of them due to Alzheimer’s disease.

Why is World Alzheimer’s Day important?

World Alzheimer’s Day raises awareness, reduces stigma, promotes early diagnosis, and supports patients and caregivers.

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025: Meaning, History, Theme, Cases in India, Treatment

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