buttons_vertical | PreventionFor persons of African American HeritageWelcome to the Dementia Prevention Website for persons of African-American
heritage. This site contains information that applies to all older African-Americans. Healthy Memory for Older Persons of African-American HeritageMemory loss is a common health problem in all older individuals but persons
of African-American descent may have a higher risk for developing memory
troubles over age 65. Many older persons from all ethnic groups are worried
by memory troubles. Some people may view memory troubles as a sign of
“losing their mind” or “going crazy”. This misunderstanding
causes people to delay treatments that may help save memory function.
Persons of African-American descent are at greater risks for certain health
problems that seem to increase the risk of memory troubles. High blood
pressure, diabetes, obesity, and poor diet or exercise habits are health
challenges that confront the African-American senior community. Persons
of African-American descent may have the same risk for developing Alzheimer
disease as other individuals but the excess risk for blood vessel or heart
disease may increase the risk for memory loss.
African-American families are often proud of their devotion to caring
for older family members. This devotion can sometimes cause families to
delay seeking help out of loyalty and devotion to the person with memory
troubles. Family members who love their parents or grandparents will be
sure that they receive proper care for memory difficulties.
Older individuals who are experiencing memory troubles should seek medical
care. Many health problems can cause difficulty with remembering facts
and correction of these health problems will improve the memory troubles. Consumer Guides
Lay Persons
Health Professionals, Physicians Return to top
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