African Americans have a greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease than the general population. Incidence in African Americans is higher than almost any other  group, with estimates ranging from 14 percent to almost 100 percent higher than whites. Scientists don’t yet know why, but they have observed a greater familial risk, and many hypothesize that genetic and environmental factors may be at work, too. Over the next 30 years, as the number of African-Americans entering the age of risk more than doubles, Alzheimer’s could reach epidemic proportions in this population.
In an effort to meet the growing needs of this population, the Greater Illinois Chapter has created several outstanding programs that educate and support those living with the disease as well as those who care for them. For the past five years, the chapter has convened the South Side Dementia Consortium, a group representing medical, social service, human service agencies and churches serving individuals with dementia and their families in the African-American Community. Each year the Consortium hosts a gathering for caregivers which includes presentations by dementia care experts, opportunities for networking with others and a resource fair. Last June, the conference was held at Trinity United Church of Christ and served over 130 caregivers. Beverly Kimmons, our manager of education and outreach, also recently joined Congressman Danny K. Davis’ 7th Congressional District’s Health Care Task Force where she is working to promote the cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Beverly is also working with the Washington Square Foundation to bring together representatives of medical clinics and health organizations in the African-American community with the goal of identifying dementia-related needs and working on future partnerships. Other efforts in the African-American community include our work with the Chicago Department of Public Health’s Committee to Strengthen Community Structure for the purpose of utilizing community health promoters in under-resourced communities to increase awareness and understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. In the faith-based community, we are working with the Pastors of Englewood to encourage residents to actively participate in dementia-related medical research. |
