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

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 West Virginia

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

The West Virginia DHHR has taken several key steps to strengthen its response to Alzheimer’s and other dementia. The state has established the West Virginia Alzheimer’s and Dementia Task Force and formally codified a Dementia Services Director to lead and coordinate efforts. It is also expanding dementia training, including recent initiatives to train law enforcement officers. Additionally, West Virginia is actively providing education for both the public and healthcare providers to raise awareness and improve care.

Working across the levels of prevention

Across the levels of prevention, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources implements public health programs and interventions to address Alzheimer's through:

• Safety and quality of care: Established the "Purple Alert" system for those wandering with cognitive decline.
• Dementia caregiving: Funded multiple programs to provide respite for caregivers.

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.