Alzheimer’s Association opens up conversations on African American brain health with new event

CHURCH CREEK, Md. – In light of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, The Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Maryland Chapter is continuing their mission to provide support to the over 100,000 people in the state with the disease.

The organization continues its mission of being that resource, hosting the first annual Connected Conversations On The Shore event with a focus on brain health in the African American community.

The Alzheimer’s Association reports that older African Americans are twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s or Dementia than older white individuals. “Often times people that are touched by it might be more quiet or insulated about it and keep it within the family. We’re trying to get those people to talking about it and connect with our support groups across the state,” Executive Director of Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Maryland Chapter’s David Mcshea said.

The organization estimates that at least 33,000 African American Marylanders have Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder. “And when you combine that with the fact that they also are more likely to be diagnosed later in life when their cognition is more delayed, it just makes it that much tougher to be able to treat and support them” Mcshea said.

“And sadly, we’re less likely to be recruited to participate in the clinical trials. Clinical trial participation is so important,” Alzheimer’s Chief Officer of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Dr. Carl V. Hill said.

To combat this, Thursday’s event was filled with helpful tips and resources to let caregivers know they aren’t alone.

Community Organization MAC Inc. was present to talk about the benefits of it’s  Life Bridges Program. “It is there to have them be engaged, socialize, and have that interaction that can really keep them stimulated and involved in hopes to try and prolong that progression to keep them able to do things as long as possible,” Program Coordinator Margaret White said.

As they look to reach and support the thousands of Marylanders the disease impacts yearly, those I spoke with say the biggest challenge is tackling discrimination in the health care system.

“We have to do our work in making sure that there’s cultural competence in the Dementia care system and that African American’s know the questions to ask,” Dr. Hill said.  “And we’ve got so many questions, maybe not all the answers. But starting the discussion I think in the community where we are today is an exciting opportunity for us.”

One of the big focuses of the day was the importance of early detection.  The Alzheimer’s Association has ten warning signs families should look out for that include things like memory loss that disrupts daily life, changes in mood or personality, and withdrawal from social activities.

Health experts also say that early diagnosis can often times lead to better treatment outcomes.

For those in need of immediate resources, there’s a 24/7 helpline you can reach at anytime at  1-(800)-272-3900.