Jenna Hynek
Alzheimer’s Association
During Black History Month, the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter emphasizes the urgent need for advocacy and awareness in Black communities, which continue to be disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2024 Facts and Figures report, older Black Americans are almost twice as likely as older white individuals to be living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia—yet they are less likely to receive a diagnosis. This disparity highlights systemic barriers in healthcare access, research participation, and support services for underrepresented and underserved communities.
“Alzheimer’s is a public health crisis that significantly affects Black communities, yet access to timely diagnoses, high-quality care, and vital support remains uneven,” said Sadie Hinkel, Programming Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter. “During Black History Month and beyond, we are committed to amplifying Black voices, addressing health disparities, and working toward a future where every individual impacted by Alzheimer’s has access to the care and support they deserve.”
Key findings from the Alzheimer’s Association report these challenges:
- Only 20% of Black Americans report facing no barriers to excellent healthcare and support for Alzheimer’s or other dementias.
- 65% of Black Americans say they personally know someone with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.
- Only 53% of Black Americans believe a cure for Alzheimer’s will be distributed fairly across all racial and ethnic groups.
To continue this vital conversation, the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter invites the community to join an informative webinar:
Navigating Brain Health Beyond Black History MonthHosted by the Black/African American Community Impact GroupDate: Friday, February 28, 2025Time: 12 p.m. CTWho Should Attend: Open to the publicRegister Here: https://alz-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_sAwdDMTFQoysIG7Qlq2ExQ#/registration
This webinar will explore brain health, care navigation, and community engagement while providing actionable steps and resources to support well-being in Black communities.