Wednesday, May 19, 2021

2021 Alzheimer's Association Report: Race Ethnicity and Alzheimer's Disease


 


The 2021 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures report: Race, Ethnicity and Alzheimer's in America. The statistics are upsetting. There is a huge disparity and sometimes even discrimination and bias in the care of Alzheimer's patients.

 By 2050 there will likely be 12.7 million Americans living with Alzheimer's disease. There are 3 types of disparities: HEALTH -black,indigenous people of color (BIPOC)are MORE likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's and other dementia diseases; and they are less likely to be recruited and used for research and clinical trials, HEALTH CARE - is not adequate for BIPOC, and there is bias and sometimes discrimination.

 BIAS - language and cultural bias exists in the care of Alzheimer's patients There are SOLUTIONS to the problems that exist. 1) Awareness amongst healthcare providers - they should evaluate and consider a diagnosis and treatment plan for minority groups. 2) Diversity in Alzheimer's care - institutions that house Alzheimer's patients should be diversified providing resources and tools for care for all. 3) Diversity of the participants in clinical and research trials.

Click below for the full article