Keeping Care Close for Those Affected by Alzheimer’s Disease
By Office of Communications & Marketing | Jun 18, 2026
Thank you to those members of our Downstate community gathered for our annual photo commemorating The Longest Day, the Alzheimer’s Association’s signature awareness initiative that honors those living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, supports caregivers, and advances the search for treatments and a cure.
Observed on the summer solstice, The Longest Day symbolizes the challenges faced by millions of individuals and families navigating dementia. It is a day to raise awareness, inspire action, and stand in solidarity with all those affected by this devastating disease.
Our Downstate Solstice Champions proudly wore specially designed t-shirts featuring the Alzheimer’s Association’s signature purple color, a symbol of awareness and advocacy. The stars, floral elements, and pathway imagery represent hope, discovery, compassion, and the shared journey of patients, caregivers, researchers, and healthcare professionals. Together, they reflect the values of scientific excellence, compassionate care, and service that define Downstate.
Alzheimer’s holds special significance for Downstate. Through our Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease (CEAD), we provide comprehensive, interdisciplinary care for individuals living with dementia while supporting caregivers through education, counseling, and connections to community resources. Working alongside partners such as the Alzheimer’s Association, CaringKind, and other community organizations, CEAD helps expand awareness, promote early diagnosis, and connect patients and families to the services and support they need.
As an academic health sciences university, Downstate works to advance research, educate future healthcare leaders, and improve the lives of patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Thank you to everyone who participated in today’s photo and to all who contribute to this important work. By standing together as Solstice Champions, we affirm that no patient, caregiver, or family should face this journey alone.
Tags: Alzheimers