Alzheimer’s cases continue to climb in Delaware; Walk to End Alzheimer’s returns to Rehoboth Beach in early October

REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. (Sept. 8, 2025) — Delaware has seen a sharp rise in Alzheimer’s cases and deaths over the past two decades, a trend that continues to weigh heavily on families and the state’s healthcare system. Advocates hope events like the Southern Delaware Walk to End Alzheimer’s, scheduled for Oct. 4 in Rehoboth Beach, will help raise awareness and funds to confront the growing crisis.

Since 2000, Alzheimer’s cases in Delaware have increased from about 19,000 to more than 22,300 people aged 65 and older, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Deaths linked to the disease surged by 246% between 2000 and 2021 — far outpacing the national average. Nearly 32,000 family members and friends now provide 47 million hours of unpaid care each year in the state, valued at over $1 billion.

“The numbers are staggering, but so is the toll on caregivers, many of whom struggle with their own health,” said Meg DiPanni, vice president of development for the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter. “The Walk is not only about fundraising. It’s about coming together to support families today and drive progress toward better treatments tomorrow.”  “This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. There are now treatments that can change the course of the disease,” continued DiPanni. “We hope that everyone in our community can join us by starting a team to help the Alzheimer’s Association raise awareness and funds for families facing the disease today, take more steps toward treatments, and finally end this disease.”

Delaware’s aging population — particularly in Sussex County, where retirees are settling in large numbers — has fueled the rise in cases. Advocates also point to shortages of dementia-trained care providers, gaps in coordinated support for families, and stigma that often delays diagnosis. Medicaid spending tied to Alzheimer’s care in Delaware now tops $339 million annually.

A growing community event

The Southern Delaware Walk to End Alzheimer’s has become one of the largest Alzheimer’s events in the state. Last year, more than 350 people joined the walk, creating a sea of purple shirts and Promise Garden flowers in downtown Rehoboth Beach. Organizers say the turnout reflects how deeply the disease touches local families and the community’s determination to act.

This year’s event begins at 8 a.m. Oct. 4 at Grove Park, with the symbolic Promise Garden ceremony at 9 a.m., followed by the walk. So far, 222 participants on 70 teams have registered, with a goal of raising $180,000.

During the Promise Garden ceremony, walkers will carry flowers in different colors to honor their connection to the disease — from caregivers (yellow) and supporters (orange) to those living with Alzheimer’s (blue) and those who have lost someone (purple). A white flower, carried by children, represents the promise of a world without Alzheimer’s.

Looking forward

The state released its first Alzheimer’s action plan in 2013, but advocates are pressing for a standing Alzheimer’s Commission to update strategies and guide public health efforts. Public awareness campaigns have been proposed to educate both residents and healthcare providers, particularly in underserved areas.

Organizers say the Walk helps keep these issues front and center while giving families a space to honor loved ones, share stories, and push for progress.

To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Southern Delaware Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit act.alz.org/southerndelaware.

Editor’s Note: The Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter serves Sussex County by providing education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Through local support groups, community programs, and the 24/7 Helpline, the organization empowers caregivers and promotes early detection and brain health. Its annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Rehoboth Beach raises critical funds and awareness, uniting the community in the fight against this growing public health crisis.

Staff Writer

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