By Joe W. Bowers Jr., California Black Media
June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time public health experts and advocates across California have dedicated to promoting brain health and raising awareness about Alzheimer’s, joining the global fight to eliminate the disease.
The Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging global participation by urging individuals to wear purple and engage in brain-healthy activities.
According to Dr. Tanisha Hill-Jarrett, a neuropsychologist and assistant professor of neurology at the University of California, San Francisco Memory and Aging Center says, “Black Americans have double the risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to their White counterparts.”
Hill-Jarrett emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between normal aging and the symptoms of dementia, which include memory lapses, confusion, difficulty completing familiar tasks, and changes in mood or personality. She asserts that early recognition of these symptoms can significantly impact the management and progression of Alzheimer’s.
Hill-Jarrett also stresses the need for self-advocacy in healthcare, pointing out that symptoms are often not taken seriously in Black communities, leading to delayed diagnoses and inadequate referrals to specialists. “Research shows that Black Americans frequently face higher rates of misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. By the time we get the proper care, the disease has often progressed, making intervention more challenging,” she states.
Consider the story of Mary, a 70-year-old grandmother from South Los Angeles. At the request of her family, her last name is being kept confidential. Mary, known for her sharp mind and warm heart, began experiencing memory lapses and confusion. Despite her family’s concern, she delayed seeking medical help due to distrust in the healthcare system and fear of stigma. Her children observed her forgetting familiar routes, leaving tasks unfinished, and misplacing items. By the time she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it was too late for effective treatment, placing a significant emotional and financial burden on her family. Her children had to juggle their work and personal lives with the overwhelming responsibilities of caregiving duties, leading to stress and financial strain.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder causing memory loss, cognitive decline, and loss of independence. Its effects on Black Americans are intensified due to historic and systemic disparities in healthcare, leading to delayed diagnoses and limited access to high-quality care.
Genetic predisposition, health disparities, socioeconomic factors, chronic stress, and systemic racism all contribute to the higher incidence of Alzheimer’s among Black Americans
“Stress impacts your cognitive health by releasing cortisol, which affects the brain’s memory center,” Dr. Hill-Jarrett said. “Structural racism, which limits access to health-promoting resources, exacerbates these risks. Living in resource-deprived environments takes a toll on health over time.”
Statistics reveal the extent of the problem. 21.3% of Black Americans aged 70 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, yet only 35% of Black people express concern, despite the higher risk. Black Americans are half as likely to be diagnosed, often missing necessary care and support. Additionally, 80% report barriers to quality care, and 50% have experienced discrimination when seeking care for a loved one with dementia.
Several organizations are working to address Alzheimer’s among Black Californians. Alzheimer’s Los Angeles has formed the Dementia Care Network, offering services such as outreach programs, health education, and support groups in historically Black neighborhoods. The Alzheimer’s Association provides resources and information tailored to Black Americans, addressing their unique challenges.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) launched the “Take on Alzheimer’s” campaign to promote brain health and facilitate discussions with family members and healthcare providers. CDPH Director Dr. Tomás J. Aragón noted that the number of Californians living with Alzheimer’s is projected to double over the next 20 years, emphasizing the urgency for education and awareness.
Legislative efforts on behalf of the public include California’s State Plan for Alzheimer’s Disease, which promotes person-centered care responsive to the state’s diverse cultural, ethnic, racial, socio-economic, and demographic diversity. The Alzheimer’s Disease Program administers a network of California Alzheimer’s Disease Centers (CADCs) dedicated to improving the quality of life for those affected.
Senate Bill 613, by Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) requires the CDPH to update physician guidelines for managing Alzheimer’s and dementia. Senate Bill 48 by Sen. Monique Limon (D-Santa Barbara) expands Medi-Cal benefits to include annual cognitive health assessments for eligible members.
Grassroots efforts to address the disease involve community outreach by organizations like The Links Incorporated and local NAACP chapters, which raise awareness through health fairs, church events, and educational workshops. Activists advocate for culturally competent care and push for community-based participatory research.
To promote brain health and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, Dr. Hill-Jarrett advises regular cardiovascular exercise, especially in midlife as activities that increase heart rate and blood flow to the brain can boost cognitive health. She says that eating a heart-healthy diet, rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, is essential and managing high blood pressure and diabetes, which significantly impact brain health in the Black community.
Staying socially active is another crucial factor. “People who are socially isolated have a higher risk of developing dementia,” Dr. Hill-Jarrett, noted. “Engaging with friends, family, and community activities can help maintain cognitive function.” She also encouraged cognitive stimulation through learning new skills or hobbies. “Challenging your brain by learning a new language or instrument is beneficial.”
Ensuring adequate sleep is vital for brain health. “The glymphatic system, which clears harmful proteins from the brain, is active during sleep,” she explained. “Aim for six to eight hours of sleep each night to support this process.”
For more detailed information or to get involved, visit the Alzheimer’s Association and the Healthy Brain Initiative websites.
