Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month 2026: Key June Health Observances to Know

June is one of the most health-focused months of the year. From global brain health advocacy to cancer survivor recognition, June's healthcare observances remind us that awareness, early action, and community support can change outcomes.

Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, observed every June, anchors the month's health calendar. This article covers what you need to know about Alzheimer's awareness, National Cancer Survivors Month, and other key June health observances.

What Is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month?

Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month is observed each June to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease, other dementias, and overall brain health.

The goal is to encourage people to understand the risk factors, recognize early warning signs, and take steps now to protect cognitive health before symptoms emerge.

How Common Is Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer's disease currently affects more than 7 million Americans, and that number is projected to be 13.8 million by 2060 as the population ages. There is no known cure as of 2026.

Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer's

If you notice any of the following in yourself or a loved one, speak with a doctor promptly. Early diagnosis matters and some medications are only effective in the early stages of the disease.

Common early warning signs include:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life.

• Decline in problem-solving or planning skills.

• Confusion about time, place, or familiar people.

• Difficulty retracing steps when items are misplaced.

• Forgetting recent conversations or events.

Reducing Your Risk

While Alzheimer's can't always be prevented, research points to lifestyle changes that may delay onset: regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet are among the most effective and accessible steps you can take today.

How to Get Involved

Wear purple, share your story, and spread awareness online with #ENDALZ. You can also volunteer or donate through the Alzheimer's Association to support research and advocacy efforts.

Alzheimer's and Long-Term Care

Most people with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia will eventually need long-term care, and those costs are not covered by Medicare or standard health insurance, which only pays for short-term skilled services.

Long-Term Care Insurance covers personal and memory care needs, but policies must be purchased before a diagnosis. If cognitive decline runs in your family, planning ahead is especially important. A Long-Term Care Insurance specialist can help you evaluate your options.

National Cancer Survivors Month

June is also National Cancer Survivors Month. There are more than 18 million cancer survivors in the U.S. today. This number continues to grow thanks to advances in treatment and early detection.

This observance honors survivors, uplifts those still in the fight, and raises awareness of the long-term physical and emotional impacts of a cancer diagnosis. Support survivors this June by using #CelebrateSurvivorship and #NationalCancerSurvivorMonth.

National Aphasia Awareness Month

Aphasia is a condition that affects communication, speaking, listening, and language comprehension,  most often caused by stroke or brain injury. It affects approximately 2 million Americans, yet most people have never heard of it.

National Aphasia Awareness Month aims to close that gap. The easiest way to participate is to share information and stories on social media using #AphasiaAwareness.

Other June Healthcare Observances

June is also home to several additional monthly and single-day observances:

Monthly campaigns:

• Cytomegalovirus Awareness Month: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common illness that can cause serious problems for pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems. This month aims to raise awareness about this preventable disease to improve health nationally. 

• Scleroderma Awareness Month: Scleroderma is an incurable autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and skin thickening. This observance aims to spread awareness and education about the condition.

• Cataract Awareness Month: Cataracts cause cloudiness in the eye and are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. The month of June is dedicated to raising support and awareness for people with vision loss due to cataracts. It also aims to show that treatment like cataract surgery is available and effective at treating the condition.  

• Hernia Awareness Month: A hernia is a painful condition in which an organ or tissue protrudes through weak muscle, causing discomfort and other symptoms. The goal of Hernia Awareness Month is to inform people about the signs of hernias and help them get treatment. 

• Scoliosis Awareness Month: Scoliosis is when the spine curves in a way that may cause pain or impair breathing. This awareness month aims to help people identify and prevent scoliosis, as early treatment can help young people avoid pain down the road.

• Men’s Health Month: The goal of Men’s Health Month is to raise awareness about men’s health, such as prostate cancer and mental health issues, and encourage men to stay healthy. Men are less likely than women to seek out medical support or preventative care. This month encourages men to get regular checkups and reach out for help if needed, especially with mental health.

Single-day observances:

• (June 14) World Blood Donor Day: Organized by the WHO to honor donors and promote safe blood donation worldwide.

• (June 19) World Sickle Cell Day: This year's theme is "Shine The Light on Sickle Cell".

• (June 27) National HIV Testing Day: Encourages testing, reduces stigma, and connects people to treatment.

Learning About Long-Term Care This June

Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month is a timely reminder that cognitive decline is one of the most common reasons people need long-term care — and that planning ahead makes all the difference. Here are two resources to help you get started:

• What Is Alzheimer's Disease? Causes, Stages & Treatment – A plain-language overview of the disease, from early diagnosis to advanced care needs.

• Who Needs Long-Term Care Insurance? – Understand whether LTC Insurance makes sense for your situation and why timing matters.