Alzheimer's Association forum to address health disparities, outline path to equity in Black community

Black History Month event brings together respected leaders to discuss strategies for engaging Black Americans in Alzheimer’s and dementia care initiatives

Submitted by the Alzheimer’s Association

In honor of Black History Month, the Alzheimer’s Association, along with African American strategic partners, will host a virtual forum, “Alzheimer’s and Dementia Conversations: Listening to the Voices of the Black Community,” at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 23. Partners participating in the program include National Council of Negro Women, The National Caucus and Center on Black Aging, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Chi Eta Phi Sorority and the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Organizers said, “The one-hour forum will feature robust dialogue on the historical and cultural perspectives facing Black Americans as it relates to Alzheimer’s and dementia care and the path toward a more equitable future.

“According to the Alzheimer’s Association, older Black Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than white Americans. Black Americans are less likely to receive a diagnosis. Further, when they are diagnosed, it is typically in the later stages of the disease, when their medical needs are greater.”

Carl V. Hill is chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer for the Alzheimer’s Association. He said, “Ongoing conversations and discussions about health equity and health disparities allow diversity and inclusion to strengthen our innovative capacity. When we actively seek diverse perspectives, we unleash the full potential of our society, and that’s what we at the Alzheimer’s Association hope to accomplish with programs like this one.”

National Caucus and Center on Black Aging President and CEO Karyne Jones said, "Reducing health disparities and inequities in Alzheimer's and dementia means that we begin to view health care as a right, not a privilege. When you have a healthy society, you have a productive society that thrives. Through these types of forums, we can work together to bridge the gaps that exist in this space."

The Alzheimer's Association stated, “Diversity and inclusion are vital to our mission. The association leads strategic initiatives to support diversity and a culture of inclusivity. These strategic initiatives also strengthen outreach to all populations, providing communities with resources and support to address the Alzheimer’s crisis. By partnering with organizations locally and nationally to advance diversity, equity and inclusion, the association can broaden its reach in all communities.”

The “Alzheimer’s and Dementia Conversations: Listening to the Voices of the Black Community” program is free to attend. To register, visit https://alz-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Fhlh6y_cRfCmzdSRMzTvOA, or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900.

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia – by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call 800-272-3900.

The local chapter provides programs, services and other resources for those living with dementia, their care partners, health care professionals and others across eight counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans and Wyoming. Learn more by calling 716-626-0600, ext. 313, during traditional business hours; or visit www.alz.org/WNY.