Alzheimer's disease is a growing public health crisis in Puerto Rico. In Puerto Rico, 6.2% of people aged 45 and older have subjective cognitive decline. For these individuals, their families and those living with Alzheimer's, a public health approach is necessary to lessen the burden and enhance the quality of life for those living with cognitive impairment and their families.

Public health spotlight

In Puerto Rico, the Department of Health organized a set of Un Café por el Alzheimer, a combination of in-person and social media engagement that facilitated conversations among experts and community members about cognitive health and Alzheimer's disease.

Puerto Rico plan overview

The Puerto Rico Secretary of Health appointed an Alzheimer's Advisory Council to develop a plan addressing Alzheimer's in Puerto Rico. The Council published their Alzheimer’s Disease Action Plan for PR in 2015.

Resources for action

State and local public health agencies around the country are taking action against Alzheimer's by implementing the Healthy Brain Initiative: State and Local Road Map for Public Health, 2023–2027. Public health practitioners can learn by example and find resources to help guide their response below.