Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic memory loss disorder that is estimated to impact over 5 million people in the United States (U.S.) and more than 50 million people worldwide. 1, Although there are many types of dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form. Reports have indicated that it is the 6th leading cause of death in America, in which there is no absolute prevention or cure available.
As the population of older adults over the age of 65 continues to age, scientists have predicted that the number of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease will double in the twenty years.1 “Minority populations in the United States suffer a disproportionate burden of Alzheimer’s disease. It is projected that minorities who experience Alzheimer’s will more than double from 2.7 million to 6.9 million by 2030.”2 Hispanics diagnosed with this memory disorder is estimated to increase more than six-times by 2050. Meanwhile, African-Americans are reported to have a higher incidence of the disease and thus at greater risk of increased death rates among all of the minority groups. Conversely, Asian-Americans, such as Japanese older adults, have been recognized as having the lowest incidence of the disease. Currently, Alzheimer’s disease is the 4th leading cause of death among older African-Americans. The higher incidence and prevalence of this cognitive disorder has been linked to health disorders such as hypertension and diabetes, which disproportionately affects the African-American and Hispanic populations at a much higher rate compared to other ethnic groups. 3, 4
Gender and age differences are noted in national reports regarding Alzheimer’s disease. Data has shown that there’s a greater correlation associated with women and persons over the age of 65. It is worth noting that 1-in 10 persons in this age group are predicted to be living with Alzheimer’s disease.5 Unfortunately, many people may not be aware that they are at risk for the acquiring the disorder. In fact, researches have reported that the onset of the disorder begins almost 20 years before symptoms begin to manifest.6 As age increases so does the risk of being diagnosed with the disorder. Hence, African-American and Hispanic women will more likely make up the majority of the ethnic minority population suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Other factors such as demographics and geographical location have also been noted. Western and southern regions within the United States that have increased senior populations, poverty, lower education, and lack of healthcare services are potentially at great risk as well.7, 8 These identified risk factors coupled with the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can create a socioeconomic burden on the families, communities, and the entire healthcare system.
Thoughts to Ponder!
Are you prepared to care for your loved one if they are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease? Who will be responsible for assisting with the daily caregiver responsibilities? And are you prepared to cover the increased medical costs and where will the supportive resources come from? If no cure is identified and no resources are provided to communities in need, other thoughts to consider……..Who will bear the financial costs and burdens associated with this “silent” epidemic disease?
These questions and many more are the reasons why nonprofit organizations such as ICARE are needed. ICARE was established to help increase Alzheimer’s disease awareness and provide support services for communities in need. If you are interested in supporting our efforts or want to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias please create a free member profile by clicking on the link below. You can also browse our resource page for more information regarding the latest news, research, and support services available.