Dementia is one of the most important, but often overlooked, health care issues related to older African Americans.

 Research shows that African Americans are two to three times more likely to develop a dementia disorder (compared to European Americans) and at the same time are less likely to be diagnosed early in the disease process and provided with adequate treatment.

Today's guest, Dr. Fayron Epps, Nurse Scientist and Assistant Professor at Emory University, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, is focused on changing this by improving access to resources and awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias in African American and faith communities by conducting research and providing education. 

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Dr. Fayron Epps:

• [08:24] Dementia education is essential to caring for loved one's with dementia. Dr. Epps describes the importance of education and resources about dementia, in particular, in African American communities
• [13:32] Dr. Epps describes the role of African American churches as the cornerstone to the Black community and as a safe haven for many Black families. 
• [16:57] Dr. Epps describes ways in which education about dementia transforms the caregiving experience. 
• [20:07] With systemic racism and strained relationships with the health care system disproportionately affecting African Americans, Dr. Epps shares her personal testimony of working through her own mistrust with the health care system. 
• [23:44] Dr. Epps provides recommendations to African American individuals and families about working through their own mistrust of the health care system
• [28:39] The number one recommendation Dr. Epps has for families concerned about an older loved one. 

 

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