June is almost over and that means we’re headed into the next month of summer. July is filled with different weeks and days dedicated to different needs of awareness and World Brain Day is one of them. Anywhere between 5% and 55% of those 55 or older frequently suffer from neurological diseases. Reasons like this are why World Brain Day exists. The concept of this day is to spread public awareness of neurological health and more awareness is exactly what is needed.
Prepare to mark your calendars for July 22nd because this day is all about educating those around us and understanding more about brain health. As a Florida senior, keep reading to find out what you need to know, why, and how you can help to be a part of the solution.
Understanding the Importance of This Day as a Senior
World Brain Day is an initiative that was established by the World Federation of Neurology (WFN) to shed light on the importance of brain health and the burden of neurological disorders that affect millions of people worldwide. Each year, on July 22nd, medical professionals, researchers, and the public come together to promote brain health and advocate for improved care and support systems for those with neurological diseases.
So, why is this day so crucial, aside from the obvious reasons? The answer lies in the fact that our brains are who we are. They control our thoughts, emotions, movements, and memories. The brain enables us to experience the world around us and even connect with our loved ones. Yet, when our brains are affected by disorders or injuries, the impact on our lives can be profound. This is why World Brain Day is so important. Until something happens, brain health often goes disregarded. Prevention tactics are taken too lightly and awareness efforts aren’t widespread enough. With each World Brain Day, better awareness and more participation are expected and this is what we hope to achieve this coming month.
Neurological disorders consist of a wide range of conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and many others. These disorders can cause physical and cognitive impairments, leading to a decreased quality of life for individuals and their families. Unfortunately, these are also all common disorders experienced by seniors. The economic burden of neurological disorders is also immense, with healthcare costs and lost productivity taking a toll on societies worldwide.
How You Can Help Spread Awareness
On World Brain Day, the global community unites to raise awareness about these conditions and the urgent need for ‘better’ prevention, treatment, and support. It serves as a platform to educate the public about brain health, dispel myths and misconceptions around brain health, and the chance to advocate for policy changes that prioritize neurological care and research.
Now, you may be wondering, how can you contribute to spreading awareness about World Brain Day as a Florida senior. There are actually several ways you can make a difference:
Educate Yourself and Help to Educate Others
Take the time to learn about different neurological disorders, their symptoms, and available treatment options. With this, as a senior, you also want to do your best to take prevention methods for yourself like adopting the Mediterranean diet, prioritizing sleep, and ensuring that you stay mentally active.
Understanding the challenges faced by those living with neurological conditions will enable you to be more empathetic and supportive so do what you can to learn more and to spread that knowledge.
As a Senior, Plan or Attend Awareness Events
Plan or participate in events that promote brain health. These can include public talks, webinars, workshops, or fundraisers. Collaborate with local healthcare organizations, universities, or community centers to make these events impactful and inclusive. Some local churches may even be planning something and you should consider participating if so. If not, you could also coordinate something for your church and sponsor it on your own.
Advocate for Change
Write to your local representatives, urging them to prioritize brain health in healthcare policies and increase funding for neurological research. This can be helpful for seniors and the elderly population in general. By raising your voice, you can contribute to the development of better care and support systems for individuals living with neurological disorders and in a way, help to create better opportunities for those with a family history of neurological diseases.
Support Organizations With This Cause
Consider donating to reputable organizations that focus on brain health research, awareness, and support services. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by neurological conditions.
Remember, every effort counts when it comes to raising awareness about brain health. By participating in World Brain Day, you become part of a global movement striving for a better future for individuals living with neurological disorders.
As July approaches, seniors should embrace the opportunity to champion brain health and the problems that come with it. Together, we can work towards a world where neurological disorders are better understood, prevented, and managed.
A Powerful Reminder to Seniors in Florida
World Brain Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of brain health in our lives. It’s a day to come together, learn, advocate, and spread awareness about the challenges faced by those living with neurological disorders.
July is another month to enjoy the beach, soak in the sun, and plan more vacations. It’s also a month of compassion, education, and action, as we do what we can to better support those affected by brain-related conditions.
