Councilwoman Linda Julian presented a proclamation at the Sept. 24 Miami Gardens City Council meeting recognizing Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and honoring local advocates working on caregiver supports and awareness.

Julian called Gloria Romero Rosas to the front of the chamber and described Rosas as “a true advocate for Alzheimer’s awareness.” Julian read statistics in the proclamation about the national and local scope of the disease and presented the proclamation to Rosas and the Alzheimer’s Association.

A representative identified in the meeting as from the Alzheimer’s Association described the disease as “a silent epidemic” and urged earlier diagnosis as a pathway to available treatments. The representative noted that there are now treatments that, with early diagnosis, may slow some cognitive decline and that a blood test is available to help identify candidates for early intervention.

The speaker emphasized that Miami-Dade County has one of the highest prevalences of Alzheimer’s diagnosis in the country and encouraged coordination between the Alzheimer’s Association and city staff on training and outreach. The representative also invited the city to participate in the November Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Loma Depot Park and offered to provide training and materials to the city.

Why it matters: The proclamation highlights health and caregiving needs in Miami Gardens and signals local willingness to partner with the Alzheimer’s Association on outreach and early-detection initiatives.

What’s next: The Alzheimer’s Association representative said they would work with the city manager’s office to provide trainings and promote the association’s upcoming events to residents.