While April marked Minority Health Month—a time long dedicated to recognizing and protecting the health of communities of color—we know these conversations don’t end when the month does. With roots tracing back to Booker T. Washington’s 1915 National Health Improvement Week, this observance continues to spark critical conversations about the realities of our health year-round.
Today, our communities are having more conversations about brain health and Alzheimer’s disease than ever before. In this environment of rapidly changing health priorities and awareness, what kind of change is possible? Where should we start?
- Test your brain health knowledge
- Provide support and resources
- Raise the volume
Culturally Relevant Resources
For far too long, too many of us have navigated Alzheimer’s and other related dementias alone—without enough culturally relevant information, without a space to share our stories, and without the support systems we deserve. AlzInColor is changing that.
In January 2026, we launched AlzInColor, a digital community resource center, to bring brain health conversations in Black and Latino communities into the light—because our families deserve to be informed, supported, and seen.
AlzInColor is rooted in culture and honors the values that guide Black and Latino communities every day: faith, family, resilience, respect for our elders, and deep community bonds.
Why It Matters to Our Communities
While Alzheimer’s affects people of all backgrounds, Black and Latino communities often face a greater burden. Older Black Americans are about twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's as older white Americans. Older Hispanic Americans are about 1.5 times as likely. By 2060, Latinos are projected to face the largest increase in Alzheimer's cases of any racial or ethnic group in the U.S.
But this is not just about risk—it’s about opportunity. Opportunity to talk more openly, to learn earlier, to support one another, and to take action that can change the path forward for our families.
That’s why AlzInColor exists—to help shift the conversation, uplift our communities, and ensure no one navigates this journey alone. This isn’t just a website. It’s a community space—created for us, by us.
So, let’s talk about it. Here’s what we want more people to understand—and what we can change, together.
Breaking Stigma with Brain Health Knowledge
When someone shows signs of memory loss, an individual or family may notice, but not take action, avoiding conversations because of the stigma associated with memory loss and a potential Alzheimer’s or other related dementia diagnosis. It’s easy to wave off early signs as forgetfulness or to put off conversations with our own healthcare providers until something is wrong.
However, getting the right help could start with testing your knowledge. Research shows that Alzheimer’s and other related dementias can begin 10-20 years before noticeable memory loss symptoms appear. Others may not know that Medicare offers a free annual wellness visit that includes a brain health assessment.
The Pointer study tells us that, up to 45% of dementia cases, including Alzheimer’s, may be reduced or delayed by addressing modifiable risk factors—many linked to daily habits, lifestyle, and overall health choices. With that, brain health is not just about testing and diagnosis, it’s also about what we can and should do now to protect our brain.
Empowering yourself with knowledge can help you find the right resources for your family and community when they need you.
Test your knowledge and protect your brain health now: https://www.alzincolor.com/brain-health-quiz
Starting the Conversation with Your Healthcare Provider with Confidence
Brain health deserves early, open conversations. Talking openly about changes in memory and thinking is an act of strength, love, and preparation.
We routinely check our blood pressure and cholesterol, but when was the last time you checked in on your brain? Starting a conversation about brain health with your healthcare provider (e.g., doctor, nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant) is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect your future self.
There’s no reason to wait for symptoms related to changes in memory and thinking. Knowing your family history and having early conversations with your healthcare provider (HCP) about brain health keeps you informed and makes it easier to stay well.
Read our blog, “Kickstarting a Brain Health Conversation with Your Healthcare Provider” and download the brain health family history questionnaire to help guide meaningful conversations with your healthcare provider.
A System That Supports You
With any illness, we’re often suddenly thrust into the process of seeking and navigating the right support and resources. And if you’ve ever left a doctor’s appointment feeling unheard or dismissed, you’re not alone.
However, you don’t have to navigate the system or challenges as a patient or caregiver alone. There are many organizations that can serve as allies throughout your journey.
AlzInColor has compiled a list of state and national resources that offer insights into navigating health systems, clinical trials, self-care, services, and more. Resources are available in both English and Spanish.
Find navigation help now:
General Resources: alzincolor.com/general-resources
State-by-State Resources: https://www.alzincolor.com/state-resources
Raising the Volume Through Storytelling
Many people in our communities have had to watch Alzheimer’s touch someone they love. And brain health conversations are most impactful when they happen before a crisis. They are also impactful when authentic stories are shared, because seeing yourself in the conversation matters.
Your story has power. By sharing your experiences, you can guide, inspire, and uplift others concerned about their brain health or caring for a loved with Alzheimer’s.
Learn more and share your story now: alzincolor.com/share
And for culturally relevant stories and education, explore our previous webinar series here—and stay tuned for details on our upcoming six-part series. https://www.alzincolor.com/webinars
The Future We're Building Together Is Brighter
As AlzInColor Campaign Founder Deanna Darlington says: “The more we talk about brain health, the more we can do to eradicate diseases like Alzheimer’s”.
And “Brain health is a matter of equity,” said Dr. Elena Rios, President of the National Hispanic Health Foundation. “Black and Latino communities face a disproportionate burden of Alzheimer’s and other dementias, yet too often lack access to early diagnosis, quality care, and culturally responsive education. Protecting brain health means investing in risk reduction, research, and community-centered solutions that honor our lived experiences and ensure every family has access to the resources that support lifelong brain health”.
It’s time to take your first step. Test your knowledge. Find the right resources. Share your story.
Together, we can Raise the Volume on brain health.
Subscribe, follow, and engage with us today and join the movement.
English-language: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Linktree, TikTok, YouTube
Spanish-language: Facebook, Instagram
