Flowers have long been seen as a sign of renewal and hope, blossoming each spring after the winter cold fades. They’re also viewed as gestures of love when delivered on birthdays or anniversaries and are used as tokens of grief when sent to those in mourning. Because of these sentimental links, The Alzheimer’s Association created a distinct color-coding system that connects each personal relationship with dementia to a specifically colored flower.
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These colorful dementia flowers bring optimism to those touched by this progressive illness. Each differently colored flower serves as a symbol of strength and represents one’s relationship with the disease:
Some people choose to dedicate their time toward learning more about dementia by earning dementia flower badges or donating money to help to fund further research in hopes of one day finding a cure.
Read on to learn more about the meanings of different dementia flowers and badges and how they help organizations work toward a future without Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
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More than 55 million people worldwide are currently living with dementia, according to the World Health Organization. Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive function, and it affects:
While there are many different forms of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type — accounting for up to 80% of cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Forgetfulness and confusion are common symptoms that appear in the earliest stages of dementia and tend to become more pronounced over time. Dementia rates are increasing globally, so raising awareness is essential.
Symbols like dementia flowers and badges create positive associations that empower and acknowledge everyone touched by dementia. They also remind caregivers and families that they’re not alone in this fight.
When a family member or a loved one receives an unexpected medical diagnosis, people often look for symbols that bring strength. Gestures, such as colorful ribbons and months of remembrance, create associations that help build awareness and bring attention to special causes.
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Whether you are a dedicated caregiver, have lost a loved one to dementia, or are passionate about finding a cure, there is a dementia flower recognizing your commitment to the cause.
Each year, the Alzheimer’s Association hosts a Walk to End Alzheimer’s where participants receive flowers to carry during the walk. The colors of these dementia flowers have different meanings and associations.
With its small blue petals, yellow center, and representative name, the forget-me-not flower has become a familiar symbol for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Forget-me-not flower pins and stickers are worn both by people with dementia and by those who want to raise awareness of the condition.
The Alzheimer’s Society sells a variety of forget-me-not themed merchandise in their online store, with 100% of proceeds going toward the fight against dementia.
Growing your own patch of forget-me-nots is a thoughtful way to honor a loved one with dementia. Packs of forget-me-not seeds are available for purchase online or from your local greenhouse.
From crochet patterns to personalized forget-me-not tattoos honoring loved ones, this well-known flower has become a powerful icon.
Dementia care badges showcase an individual’s dedication to dementia education, enabling them to become advocates for the memory care community. While there is currently no cure for dementia, fundraising opportunities encourage gifts that go toward funding research for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. These badges serve as symbols of inspiration:
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When caring for a loved one with dementia, it’s important to stay aware of your own mental and physical health. Learn more about support options through these resources:
Sources
Alzheimer’s Association. Our story.
Alzheimer’s Association New Mexico Chapter. (2019). AlzAdvocate: Summer 2019 newsletter. Alzheimer’s Association.
Alzheimer’s Disease International.Dementia statistics.
Alzheimer’s Society. The forget me not appeal.
Alzheimer’s Society. Dementia friends.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019, October 30). Caregiving for a person with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
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