Mount Maunganui will be awash in a sea of purple on September 28 as people take to the streets to raise awareness of dementia.

The Alzheimers Tauranga Memory Walk, now in its fifth year, falls during World Alzheimer's Month and is for people of all ages and abilities to honour family and community members that have been or are affected by dementia.

Funds raised will assist Alzheimers Tauranga to support people living with dementia, carers, family, whanau and friends to live as well as possible. The organisation works with individuals and families to

provide personalised education and support, and offers support groups, activity groups and a volunteer companion and befriender programme.

'It's primarily to raise awareness around dementia because it's a massive issue for those who have got it or are supporting someone who has got it, but also for society because the number of people with dementia has increased and will keep increasing as our population ages,” says general manager Glenn Bradley.

The Memory Walk leaves from Coronation Park at 10am on Saturday, September 28 along a 4km course into Salisbury Park, along Pilot Bay, across the front of Mauao on Adams Ave, then down Marine Parade, up Banks Ave and back to Coronation Park. The route is wheelchair, family and dog friendly.

There is no registration fee for joining the Memory Walk this year, but a donation would be greatly appreciated.

For more information contact Glenn on (07) 577 6344 or email tauranga@alzhiemers.org.nz