African-Americans are twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s or dementia than whites

According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2015 Facts and Figures report, African-Americans are two times more likely to develop late-onset Alzheimer’s disease than whites and less likely to have a diagnosis of their condition, resulting in less time for treatment and planning. The Alzheimer’s Association is committed to raising awareness of Alzheimer’s disease, the nation’s 6th-leading cause of death, in diverse populations.

Many people dismiss the warning signs of Alzheimer’s, believing that they are merely a part of typical aging. While there are currently no treatments to stop or even slow the progression of Alzheimer’s, early detection and diagnosis can allow for earlier use of available treatments that may provide some relief of symptoms and help maintain independence longer. An early diagnosis can also allow the individual to be active in making legal, financial and care plans while they are still capable to make their preferences known to their families.

Alzheimer’s Association 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life.
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems.
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure.
4. Confusion with time or place.
5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships.
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing.
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps.
8. Decreased or poor judgment.
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities.
10. Changes in mood and personality.

One of the greatest obstacles to developing the next generation of Alzheimer’s treatments is recruiting and retaining clinical trial participants. Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease allows an individual the opportunity to participate in trials.

The Alzheimer’s Association offers TrialMatch®, a free service that connects people living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, families and physicians to clinical trials based on personal criteria and location. For more information, visit alz.org/trialmatch.

For more information on the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s disease and available resources, call the Alzheimer’s Association’s toll-free, 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org/indiana.

About the Alzheimer’s Association®

The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. It is the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research. The Association’s mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org/indiana or call 800-272-3900.