Raising Awareness During Hispanic Heritage Month: Hispanic Americans Face 1.5 Times Higher Risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Jenna Hynek

OMAHA, NE – As the community celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s important to recognize the unique challenges that Alzheimer’s disease poses to Hispanic and Latino communities. Hispanic Americans are 1.5 times more likely to develop the disease compared to older White Americans. Despite the increased risk, Hispanic Americans are underrepresented in clinical trials, which limits the understanding of how racial and ethnic differences impact the effectiveness of new treatments.

Nubia Quiros, a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association – Nebraska Chapter, has witnessed how crucial it is to bring the gap in Alzheimer’s awareness within the Hispanic Community.

“I became interested in the Alzheimer’s Association when I started working with the hospital’s geriatrics department and began interacting with the Hispanic community,” Quiros said. “I noticed that Hispanic patients were not always getting a full understanding of senior health concerns because of the language barrier. I support the Alzheimer’s Association because I want to help make sure that all seniors in the Hispanic community understand Alzheimer’s and what can be done to try to prevent and manage it.”

By 2060, the number of Hispanics and Latinos living with Alzheimer’s is projected to increase nine-fold, reaching 3.5 million. Many of these individuals will be diagnosed in the later stages of the disease, which can result in more severe cognitive and physical impairments. Early detection and support are essential to help manage the disease effectively.

“I would tell anyone to go to their doctor if they notice any changes in their memory,” Quiros said. “The Alzheimer’s Association has resources in Spanish if themselves or a loved one is dealing with Alzheimer’s. They also have a 24/7 Helpline [800-272-3900] to get any assistance you may need.”

To bring attention to this growing gap, the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s plays a vital role. In 2023, over 350,000 people across the country participated in the Walk, raising more than $100 million for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. In Nebraska, more than 36,000 people are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and 40,000 caregivers who are typically family members or friends providing care.

If you are interested in registering for your local Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit act.alz.org/Nebraska. For more information on dementia support and resources, please visit alz.org/nebraska or contact our 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.

Alzheimer's Association®

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.