REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of September 2026 as World Alzheimer’s Month
Report
BACKGROUND
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, a brain condition that affects the parts of the brain controlling thought, memory, and language. It can seriously affect the ability of individuals to conduct their daily activities. While the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease increases as people age, it is not a normal part of aging. Scientists do not yet fully understand the causes of Alzheimer's disease, but suspect that there are multiple factors affecting individuals, including age, family history, and potential diet and environment.
In 2020, an estimated 5.8 million Americans were living with Alzheimer's disease, a number that is projected to climb to 14 million people by 2060. In California, more than 719,000 people are living with Alzheimer's disease, along with 1.37 million unpaid caregivers.
The 2026 theme for World Alzheimer's Awareness Month, is "The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters". This global campaign, organized by Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI), focuses on encouraging timely medical evaluations and early detection, reducing the social stigma and discrimination surrounding dementia and highlighting how early diagnosis unlocks treatments, care planning, and support networks.
DISCUSSION
At the September 15, 2026, City Council meeting, the City Council will proclaim September 2026 as World Alzheimer's Awareness Month.
Claire Day, Chief Mission and Program Strategy Officer from the Alzheimer's Association, Northern California and Northern Nevada Chapter, will be present to accept the proclamation.
The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia - by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Aimee Escobar, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of September 2026 as World Alzheimer’s Month.