Alzheimer’s Association's Illinois Chapter Executive Director, Delia Jervier, “Shines Light on Alzheimer’s and The Impact in Black/African American Community”


 

Alzheimer’s Association's Illinois Chapter Executive Director, Delia Jervier, “Shines Light on Alzheimer’s and The Impact in Black/African American Community” 

Among Black Americans ages 70 and older, 21.3% are living with Alzheimer's, a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. While older Black Americans are twice as likely as older Whites to have Alzheimer's or another dementia, research hasn't yet identified the cause. Higher rates of cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) disease may play a role. Some studies indicate that after correcting for overall health and socioeconomic status, these differences disappear.

During Black History Month, the Alzheimer's Association honors Alzheimer’s champions within the Black/African American community, echoing the legacy of Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller, the first known Black psychiatrist and an early contributor to dementia research in America. We highlight the importance  of representation, citing Dr. Fuller’s pivotal role in Dr. Alois Alzheimer's pioneering work as a testament to the ongoing  need for diverse perspectives in advancing Alzheimer’s research and advocacy.

Our commitment to underserved communities is demonstrated through various forums and events promoting dialogue and awareness around dementia in the Black/African American community. Recently, the Association collaborated with the NFL Alumni Association to host the Black Men’s Brain Health Conference, addressing the unique risk factors and cognitive health challenges faced by Black men.

Through strategic partnerships with organizations like Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., National Council of Negro Women, National Black Nurses Association, and Black Nurses Rock, as well as local partners, like Scottish Rite Prince Hall Masons, Chi Eta Phi, Alpha Eta Chapter, Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, and South Shore Chamber among others, we provide culturally responsive education, awareness, and support resources to Black/African American communities nationwide. These partnerships thrive on the foundation of community collaboration, driving impactful change to support those affected by the disease. Together, we strive to enhance resources and foster a more inclusive environment for individuals living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Today, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. Compared with whites, African-Americans are two times more likely and Hispanics are one and one-half times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s.

* An estimated 6.7 million people aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s.

One in 9 Americans aged 65 and older has Alzheimer’s. Among people aged 85 and older, 1 in every 3 has Alzheimer’s.


* Nearly two-thirds of seniors with Alzheimer’s are women — an estimated 4.1 million. Among those aged 65 and older, 12% of women have Alzheimer’s compared with 9% of men.


* Between 2020 and 2025, 31 states are expected to experience an increase of at least 15% in the number of people with Alzheimer’s.


*  By 2060, the number of seniors with Alzheimer’s is projected to total 13.8 million.


*  Of the 13.8 million, 6.7 million will be aged 85 and older — equal to the total number of people with Alzheimer’s today.


Join us for a free webinar as we discuss the importance of increasing clinical trial participation, health disparities among underserved populations and strategies for creating a path toward a more equitable future on Feb 23, 2024 at 12:00 CST. Register at: bit.ly/48JZE7W

The Alzheimer's Association is available with information and support for families as they navigate the disease and related research. For more information, visit alz.org/illinois or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.

By Delia Jervier, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter
Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter Media Contact: Lionell Martin, lrmartin@alz.org, 773.593.4211

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