Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are highly prevalent among Latinos, who are up to 2x more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than non-Latino whites. Despite their higher risk for dementia, Latinos are also excluded from participation and leadership in research that impacts them. If research is conducted without including Latinos, then the programs, treatments, and policies that are developed based on that research may not line up with the needs, values, and culture of Latino communities
Our community Steering Council has been leading a project started in 2021 to connect with Latinos in South Texas to understand what they believe dementia care research should focus on and how Latino communities can be included. The LRGV-AHEC has been a co-leader in this work. Our team has helped to host community pláticas in several communities of South Texas, connecting with over 350 people to learn about their experiences with dementia.