CaringKind Alzheimer's Walk Offers Free Brain Health Experiences

NEW YORK, Oct. 14, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The 38th Annual CaringKind Alzheimer's Walk and Brain Health Day is set to take place on Saturday, October 17, at Central Park's Naumburg Bandshell. Bill Ritter, who has been emceeing the event for 28 years, is now inviting New Yorkers to join him as someone living with Alzheimer's and helping lead CaringKind's "Know Your Brain. Walk With Me." campaign. The event will honor Bill Ritter and Jed Levine, with the latter being recognized for his service since 1990. Levine helped pioneer an early-stage support group that has grown into the Weinberg Early-Stage Center and has developed outreach to diverse communities across New York City.

The campaign extends beyond the park, with ABC7NY planning an October 15 special to bring the conversation about Alzheimer's and brain health to viewers ahead of Walk Day. The special will be followed by the opening ceremony at 10:30 a.m., with registration opening at 9:30 a.m. Participation is free, and attendees can register at CKWALK.ORG to join in Central Park or walk virtually.

Bill Ritter, who has been emceeing the CaringKind Walk for 28 years, now finds himself in the unique position of participating as someone living with Alzheimer's.

The campaign will also extend through Dream Outdoor's TSX billboard in Times Square, and CaringKind will offer free brain health pre-screenings and experiences for people living with dementia and care partners at the event. These pre-screenings will be conducted at a designated tent at the walk, with the BrainGuide pre-screening tool powered by UsAgainstAlzheimer's available for participants. Additionally, BetterBrain will provide brain health coaches to help participants start personalized brain health plans, and Dr. Marc Rothman of Lizzy Care will be available to speak with anyone who would like to discuss next steps with a physician.

The event will feature a variety of activities, including hearing and vision checks, blood pressure screenings, hands-on activities, and nutrition workshops. Lilly's tent will feature Planet Harvest boxes of fresh, wholesome foods, while Eisai's Healthy Well Being Station will offer produce and nutrition tips. Axsome will offer gentle stretching and aromatherapy, and RiverSpring Living will engage the five senses. The 80th Street Residence Enhanced Memory Care will invite participants to create lavender sachets.

Participants can also connect with peers in the Dream Lounge, inspired by CaringKind's Early-Stage Center and supported by The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights and Duet Care at Home. Funds raised from the event will support CaringKind's free, year-round care consultations, support groups, education workshops, early-stage and engagement programs, and care partner resources. To register, start a team, or donate, visit CKWALK.ORG. For guidance on memory concerns or dementia support, call the free, confidential Helpline at 646-744-2900.