Caring for the Brain: An OT Perspective on Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Wellness

June is Brain and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month—a time dedicated to spotlighting the
importance of brain health and raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and related
dementias. As occupational therapy practitioners, we hold a powerful and unique role in
supporting individuals living with cognitive challenges. Our work goes beyond addressing
symptoms; we help people preserve their dignity, maintain independence, and stay connected to
the activities that make life meaningful.

Occupational therapy is essential in Alzheimer’s care because it focuses on function,
engagement, and quality of life. Through personalized routines and environmental modifications,
we promote independence in daily activities. We reduce caregiver burden by equipping families
and care staff with tools and strategies that are both supportive and safe. We also address
emotional well-being by encouraging participation in personally meaningful occupations like
music, art, gardening, or reminiscence-based activities. Our goal is always to empower clients to
remain engaged in life in ways that are cognitively, socially, and emotionally enriching.

During Brain Awareness Month, OT practitioners can take a leading role in community
education and advocacy. Consider offering a workshop on brain health at a local senior center or
library, or use social media to share weekly tips on supporting cognitive function. Providing
caregivers with handouts on managing dementia-related behaviors can also make a big impact.
Education is one of the most powerful tools we have, and we can help demystify cognitive
decline while offering hope and support.

Another way OTs can contribute is by promoting brain-healthy habits. Encouraging clients to
stay physically active, eat nutritious meals (such as following the MIND diet), prioritize sleep
hygiene, maintain social connections, and engage in mentally stimulating activities can all
support cognitive function and delay decline. These habits are most powerful when embedded
into a person’s natural routines, something occupational therapy is well-equipped to do.

Creating dementia-inclusive spaces is another area where our profession shines. Whether at
home, in the clinic, or in the community, we can support environments that are easy to navigate
and promote autonomy. This might include using contrasting colors for visual clarity, posting
simple signage, or introducing visual schedules or memory aids. Small changes to the
environment can make a significant difference in supporting a person’s ability to thrive.

To support your work during Brain and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, there are several reliable
resources available. The Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) offers free educational
materials, support group information, and professional toolkits. The National Institute on Aging
provides evidence-based resources on brain health, caregiving, and Alzheimer’s research.
AOTA’s Dementia Pocket Guide and articles in OT Practice provide clinical guidance tailored to
occupational therapy professionals. For training and hands-on strategies, Teepa Snow’s Positive
Approach to Care is an invaluable tool for working with clients with dementia.

For clients and families, recommending accessible resources can help them feel more
empowered. Books like The 36-Hour Day by Mace and Rabins or Creating Moments of Joy by
Jolene Brackey are trusted guides for navigating caregiving. Cognitive exercise platforms like
BrainHQ offer engaging, evidence-based brain training that can be used at home.

Alzheimer’s disease continues to affect millions of individuals and families. But through
occupational therapy, we offer a path forward—one that is grounded in empathy, empowerment,
and occupation-centered care. This June, let’s use our voice and skills to raise awareness,
promote brain health, and advocate for the rights and needs of individuals living with cognitive
decline. As OT practitioners, we have the power to make every moment count.