The population of Americans ages 65 and older is projected to grow from 53 million in 2018 to 88 million by 2050. The baby-boom generation has already begun to reach age 65 and beyond, the age range of greatest risk for Alzheimer’s; in fact, the oldest members of the baby-boom generation turned age 72 in 2018.
Alzheimer’s disease is a public-health crisis that the Alzheimer’s Association addresses on all fronts, from increasing concern and awareness, advancing public policy for increased funding for research, to enhancing care and support for all affected. To do that effectively, we ensure diversity remains vital to our mission. Anyone who is living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, or wants to join our fight, should feel welcomed and trust that the Association is the place to turn for information, support and engagement in our full mission.
In our LGBT community, an estimated 1.5- to 3-million older adults nationwide will need and deserve the same access to quality dementia care and resources available to everyone. With national partners such as Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) and local organizations such as the LGBT Elder Initiative (LGBTEI), we can work to help overcome the barriers associated with accessing care in the LGBT community.
One way to be inclusive is to ensure cultural- and dementia-competent training takes place so that effective and trusting relationships are established between service providers and LGBT elders. Such training is offered through the Alzheimer’s Association and SAGE affiliates throughout the region. Knowledge decreases stigma and opens the door to opportunities for early diagnosis and planning and decision making around financial, medical and legal matters. Engaging in training also helps build awareness about and access to LGBT-affirming dementia care resources.
We work with our partners to educate communities across the country about the risks and warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, including sharing our 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s disease:
1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, work or at leisure
4. Confusion with time or place
5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
8. Decreased or poor judgement
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
10. Changes in mood and personality
Should you or your loved one experience any of these warning signs, support and information is only a phone call away at 800-272-3900.
Krista McKay is the director of Programs & Services for the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, serving Southern New Jersey, Southeastern Pennsylvania and Delaware. She leads a team of education and outreach specialists dedicated to providing inclusive and tailored resources, information, care consultation, and support services to constituents with Alzheimer’s, their caregivers and professional care providers.