Alzheimer’s disease is a growing public health crisis in Ohio, 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 Ohio

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 Ohio

State, local, territorial and tribal health departments are key partners in implementing a robust public health response to dementia. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is improving brain health throughout the state.

The ODH participated in the Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) Data for Action Project, a project to support the integration of data on brain health and caregiving into public health planning efforts. During this initiative, Ohio explored the association between subjective cognitive decline, mental health, and substance abuse in their state and found a significant association between cognitive decline and substance use, low income, low education, depression and disability. The findings were shared through a fact sheet to inform state agencies and promote awareness and action.

Developing public health infrastructure and expanding capacity

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

• Risk Reduction Learning Collaboratives: Richland Public Health, Marion Public Health, Athens City-County Health Department, Summit County Public Health, Pickaway County Public Health, Fairfield County Health Department
• HBI Road Map Strategists: Summit County Public Health, Franklin County Public Health, Cuyahoga County Board of Health

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.