Alzheimer’s disease is a growing public health crisis in Puerto Rico, 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 that 6.2% of people aged 45 and older have subjective cognitive decline in Puerto Rico.

Fact sheets on Alzheimer's and dementia in Puerto Rico

View and download 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 Puerto Rico

State, local, territorial and tribal health departments are key partners in implementing a robust public health response to dementia. The Puerto Rico Department of Health is improving brain health in Puerto Rico.

The Puerto Rico Department of Health launched the first dementia care coalition to align resources and strategies for prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and caregiver support. This effort is tailored to Puerto Rico’s needs and aims to improve coordination across sectors and elevate Alzheimer's and other dementia as a public health priority. The Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias Coalition of Puerto Rico, formed with 43 diverse organizations, is collaborating to analyze data on prevalence, service needs, and care gaps. Since its launch in September 2024, a dedicated task force within the Alzheimer Advisory Committee has expanded coalition membership through active outreach.

Working across the levels of prevention

Across the levels of prevention, the Puerto Rico Department of Health implements public health programs and interventions to address Alzheimer's through:

• Safety and quality of care: Prioritized safety by equipping coalition members with the knowledge needed to support individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia. Monthly meetings and workshops have provided structured opportunities to educate members and identify key areas for educating professionals.

Developing public health infrastructure and expanding capacity

Public health programs are critical to helping people stay cognitively healthy throughout life. The Puerto Rico Department of Health is developing infrastructure and expanding capacity through the implementation of the BOLD program award.

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.