Alzheimer’s disease is a growing public health crisis in Kentucky, and the impact of Alzheimer’s is projected to rise. A comprehensive public health approach is essential to improve community health, support the well-being of those living with cognitive decline and their families, and reduce the risk of dementia throughout communities. The most recent data show:

Fact sheets on Alzheimer's and dementia in Kentucky

View and download state-specific fact sheets for the latest data on each topic:

Learn more about how these data are collected in the annual Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).

Public health progress in Kentucky

State, local, territorial and tribal health departments are key partners in implementing a robust public health response to dementia. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services is improving brain health throughout the state.

Kentucky achieved a major milestone by completing the first update to the state’s Dementia Plan since 2015, led by the Kentucky Department for Public Health in collaboration with the Department for Aging and Independent Living. This updated plan provides a strategic roadmap through 2029, marking the first time the Commonwealth has established a comprehensive, statewide focus on Alzheimer’s, dementia and brain health across the life course. This achievement advances brain health for all Kentuckians, fosters greater awareness and encourages continued support and engagement from policymakers and community members.

Working across the levels of prevention

Across the levels of prevention, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services implements public health programs and interventions to address Alzheimer's through:

• Risk reduction: Kentucky's updated Dementia State Plan emphasizes risk reduction by targeting modifiable factors that influence cognitive health. The plan focuses on increasing public awareness about the link between chronic conditions — such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and smoking — and the risk of developing dementia. By promoting healthy lifestyle choices and managing these conditions, the state aims to reduce the incidence of dementia and improve overall brain health among its residents.
• Early detection and diagnosis: Enhanced early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and other dementia through the updated Dementia State Plan by disseminating information to health care providers and the public, aiming to reduce stigma and encourage timely conversations about cognitive health.
• Safety and quality of care: Partnered with local law enforcement agencies to build relationships and provide information on Alzheimer's and other dementia.
• Dementia caregiving: Offered information on brain health at events for caregivers.

Developing public health infrastructure and expanding capacity

Public health programs are critical to helping people stay cognitively healthy throughout life. Health departments in Kentucky are developing infrastructure and expanding capacity through these programs:

• BOLD Program: Kentucky Department for Public Health
• Risk Reduction Learning Collaboratives: Franklin County Health Department

Resources for public health professionals

Tools from the Alzheimer's Association provide public health strategies that public health professionals can use to improve brain health and support caregivers and people living with dementia in your community.

Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) Road Map

This guidebook provides state and local public health agencies with 24 actions to act quickly and strategically to effect positive changes in policies, systems and environments.

HBI Road Map for American Indian and Alaska Native Peoples

Find 13 public health strategies to help American Indian and Alaska Native communities improve brain health, address dementia and support caregivers.

Public Health Curriculum

This curriculum is designed for public health students, educators and professionals.

Risk Reduction

Public health can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's across the lifespan by promoting being physically active, quitting smoking, and being heart-healthy.
 

Early Detection & Diagnosis

Public health professionals can educate the community and health care providers on the benefits of early detection and help reduce barriers to diagnosis.

Caregiver Support

Public health can raise awareness of caregiver needs and help develop support and resources.