A tiny blue flower has become one of the most recognisable symbols of dementia awareness in the UK. But why is the forget-me-not associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s?

The answer begins with remembrance.

For centuries, the forget-me-not has been associated with remembrance, love, loyalty and lasting connections. Its distinctive name — forget-me-not — gives the flower an especially poignant meaning for people affected by dementia.

Today, the blue forget-me-not is also closely associated with Alzheimer’s Society and its annual Forget Me Not Appeal, which raises awareness and funds to support people affected by dementia.

So, how did this small blue flower become such a powerful symbol of remembrance, support and dementia awareness?

What Does the Forget-Me-Not Mean?

The message “remember me” can feel especially powerful when someone is living with dementia.

While memory loss can be one of the symptoms of dementia, the meaning of the forget-me-not goes beyond memory. It can be a reminder to see and remember the person behind the diagnosis — their personality, experiences, relationships and the life they have shared with others.

For families and friends, wearing a forget-me-not can also be a personal gesture. It might be worn in memory of someone who has died, to show support for someone living with dementia, or simply as a reminder of a person who matters.

The flower isn't intended to identify someone as having dementia. Anyone can wear a forget-me-not as a way of showing their support for people affected by the condition.

The Forget-Me-Not and Alzheimer’s Society

While the forget-me-not has long been associated with remembrance, its connection with dementia awareness in the UK has been strengthened by Alzheimer’s Society.

The charity launched its Forget Me Not Appeal in 2021. Held each June, the annual appeal encourages people to wear a blue forget-me-not badge while raising awareness and funds to support people affected by dementia.

The forget-me-not also features in Alzheimer’s Society's visual identity, helping to make the blue flower a familiar symbol of dementia awareness across the UK.

The badge is for anyone who wants to show their support. Wearing one doesn't mean that someone has dementia — it simply provides a visible way to stand alongside people affected by the condition and help raise awareness.

Dementia Awareness and Support in the UK

The symbolism of the forget-me-not matters because dementia affects so many people across the UK.

According to Alzheimer’s Society, one person in the UK develops dementia every three minutes, while one in three people born in the UK today will develop dementia during their lifetime.

Dementia can affect more than the person diagnosed. Partners, family members, friends and unpaid carers can all need support too.

Raising awareness can help people better understand dementia, challenge misconceptions and encourage conversations about the support available.

If you or someone you know is affected by dementia, there are organisations across the UK that can provide information, advice and support.

Alzheimer’s Society offers information and support for people living with dementia, as well as their families and carers. Its Dementia Support Line provides practical guidance and emotional support.

Dementia UK provides specialist support through its Admiral Nurse service, offering practical, clinical and emotional support to families affected by dementia.

Age UK provides information and advice for older people, including guidance around dementia, care, benefits and other issues that can affect later life.

If you're looking for support, speaking to your GP or contacting one of these organisations can be a good place to start.

Sometimes, a simple symbol can help start an important conversation.

Raising Awareness and Showing Support

You don't need to have a personal connection to dementia to show your support.

Wearing a small forget-me-not pin can be a simple and meaningful way to raise awareness. It can be worn on a coat, bag or piece of clothing, offering a discreet reminder of the people and families affected by dementia.

For those who prefer the traditional awareness ribbon, our Purple Awareness Ribbon Wristband offers another simple way to show your support.

If you're looking for another way to show your support, you can also explore our full range of dementia and Alzheimer’s awareness jewellery, with different styles to choose from.

A Small Flower with a Powerful Message

Perhaps the reason the forget-me-not has become such a meaningful symbol is that its message is so simple.

Not just to remember a name or a diagnosis, but to remember the person — their life, their relationships and the place they hold in the lives of others.

For anyone affected by dementia, that can be a powerful reminder.

Forget me not.

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