The number of Hispanics who have Alzheimer’s disease is expected to grow dramatically in the coming years, overwhelming families and communities.

In fact, by 2050, the number of U.S. Hispanics with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias is expected to grow from 200,000 to 1.3 million people.

Research shows Hispanics have high rates of diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and cholesterol, all factors that may increase the risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

To raise awareness about Alzheimer’s and brain health in Spanish-speaking communities, the Alzheimer’s Association has partnered with the National Council of La Raza to reach out to families through local lay healthworkers called “promotores de salud.”

Trained promotores talk with individuals or small groups about Alzheimer’s and lifestyle choices they can make to help reduce their risk of Alzheimer’s. They discuss caregiving and respite care so families know about community support services available to the person with Alzheimer’s and caregivers.

“Both organizations bring something to the table,” said Liany Arrollo of National Council of La Raza. “La Raza has access to the community, and the Alzheimer’s Association has the research and expertise. Together we are providing information about the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, available resources and prevention that the community wants, needs and will accept, once it’s out there.”

Two of La Raza’s affiliates — Clinica La Fe in El Paso, Texas, and Abriendo Puertas in Miami — are piloting the community healthcare project with the Association’s STAR Chapter in El Paso and the South Florida Chapter in Miami, and the project will eventually be rolled out to other chapters.