National Indigenous Justice Information Inclusion

Lifetime risk is the probability that someone of a given age who does not have a particular condition will develop the condition during that person’s remaining life span. Data through 2009 from the Framingham Heart Study were used to estimate lifetime risk of Alzheimer’s dementia by age and s*x.

As shown in Figure 6, the study estimated that the lifetime risk for Alzheimer’s dementia at age 45 was approximately 1 in 5 (20%) for women and 1 in 10 (10%) for men. The risks for both s*xes were slightly higher at age 65.

“Chene G, Beiser A, Au R, et al. Gender and incidence of dementia in the Framingham Heart Study from mid-adult life. Alzheimers Dement 2015;11(3):310-320.” Alzheimer’s Association. 2025

National Root Beer Day, celebrated on June 17th, is an opportunity to enjoy the classic, refreshingly frosty soda known as root beer. It's a chance to gather with friends, share a root beer, and potentially enjoy it as a float, showcasing the beverage's versatility and appeal. The day also provides a chance to learn about the history of root beer, from its commercial production in the US since 1875 to the wide variety of flavors available today.

Learning About the History and Evolution: Root beer has a fascinating history, from its roots in sassafras and molasses to the diverse range of flavors available today. The day provides an opportunity to learn about its development and the various brands that have contributed to its popularity.

Celebrating "Eat Your Vegetables Day" is important because it encourages individuals, especially children, to prioritize vegetables in their diets, promoting healthy eating habits and overall well-being. It's a fun and festive way to make healthy choices more accessible and appealing, while also educating people about the nutritional benefits of vegetables.

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, adults should consume at least 2 1/2 cups of vegetables per day. This is equivalent to about 5 servings of vegetables, where a serving is typically:

1 cup of raw or cooked vegetables
1/2 cup of cooked legumes (e.g., beans, lentils)
1/2 cup of starchy vegetables (e.g., potatoes, corn)
Promotes Healthy Eating: . The day serves as a reminder that vegetables are essential for a balanced diet, rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

International Waterfall Day, celebrated annually on June 16th, is important because it acknowledges the beauty and significance of waterfalls, both as natural wonders and as vital components of local ecosystems and cultures. It's a chance to appreciate the magnificent scenery and to learn about the diverse ways waterfalls contribute to the environment and human communities.

Environmental Importance: Waterfalls play a crucial role in the water cycle, supporting plant life and contributing to the overall health of river systems. They can help purify water and contribute to improved air quality by releasing negative ions. They also support diverse ecosystems, providing habitats for various species of fish, birds, and other wildlife

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: Honoring and Protecting American Indian Elders

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is recognized every year on June 15th. It was officially launched by the World Health Organization and the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse in 2006 to draw attention to the mistreatment of older adults around the world.

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical harm, emotional mistreatment, neglect, and financial exploitation. Unfortunately, elder abuse often goes unseen or unreported, especially in Indigenous communities. For American Indian elders, the risk of abuse can be even greater because of historical trauma, poverty, limited access to healthcare, and the weakening of traditional cultural support systems. In our Tribal cultures, elders are sacred keepers of wisdom, language, and tradition, and harming them is a deep violation of community values. Yet due to colonization, forced relocation, and systemic injustice, many Native elders have been left vulnerable.

Raising awareness on this day can help rebuild the traditional respect, honor, dignity and inclusion of and for elders and support stronger, healthier Native communities for generations to come.

National Nature Photography Day, celebrated annually on June 15th, is important for promoting enjoyment of nature photography and raising awareness of its role in conservation. It encourages people to capture and appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and to recognize how photography can be used to advocate for protecting our environment and wildlife. Every image that inspires us to care for our surroundings and preserve them for future generations celebrates the day.

Celebrating National Making Life Beautiful Day is important because it encourages individuals to focus on creating a positive impact on themselves and others. It's a day to appreciate the beauty in life, whether through personal growth, acts of kindness, or contributing to something larger than oneself. By actively seeking to make life beautiful, individuals can enhance their own well-being and foster a sense of community and connection.

Inspiring Others: By recognizing and celebrating those who are making life beautiful, this day inspires others to contribute to their own well-being and the well-being of their communities.

Brain Changes of Alzheimer’s Disease: The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are caused by changes in the brain. In Alzheimer’s, the brain’s neurons are especially affected. A healthy adult brain has billions of neurons, each with long, branching extensions. These extensions enable individual neurons to form connections with other neurons. At such connections, called synapses, information flows in tiny bursts of chemicals that are released by one neuron and taken up by another neuron. The brain contains trillions of synapses. They allow signals to travel rapidly through the brain. These signals form the cellular basis of memories, thoughts, sensations, emotions, movements and skills.

National Corn on the Cob Day, celebrated annually on June 11th, is important because it celebrates a beloved summer food and the rich history of corn in American culture. It's a reminder to enjoy the simple pleasures of summer picnics and barbecues, where corn on the cob is a quintessential dish. The day also acknowledges corn's importance as a staple crop and a key ingredient in many other products, according to National Today.

Cultural Significance: Corn is highly important to Native American culture for several reasons. It was and is a staple food source, a sacred crop, and a symbol of sustenance and life for many tribes. It plays a key role in diets, spirituality, and ceremonies.