KOLD 13 News: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute hosts senior health resource fair for Hispanic Heritage Month

By Raya Torres, Published: Sep. 18, 2024 at 3:01 PM EDT

TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News)—The Banner Alzheimer’s Institute hosted a senior health resource fair on Tuesday, Sept. 17, to increase awareness of brain health and Alzheimer’s prevention and awareness.

According to the National Council on Aging, Latinos maybe 50% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s, but they are less likely to pursue treatment.

Tucson resident Barney Popkin attended the event with his wife, Carolina. They attended to learn what to expect as they age.

Wilson’s mother and aunt had forms of dementia, so learning more about Alzheimer’s hits close to home.

“As my memory fades and I get less cognizant of where I am and what’s going on, I see that happening around me,” Wilson said. “So, I’m here for knowledge.”

Wilson added that he thinks everyone needs to learn more about the topic.

“We all need to know more about it so we can prepare ourselves as caregivers and as patients, I guess,” Wilson said.

Since it is Hispanic Heritage Month, the event aimed to spread awareness, especially in the Latino community.

The Alzheimer’s Associationsaid at least one in 10 Hispanics aged 65 or older have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, but Latinos only make up about 2% of clinical trials.

Banner Alzheimer’s Institute Neurologist Steven Rapcsak told 13 News, “Alzheimer’s is a very common disease, but these are exciting times because there is actually a lot of progress in diagnosis and treatment.”

Rapscak encourages southern Arizona residents to get an evaluation if they’re having symptoms. He also said people should consider participating in research and clinical trials.

“In the United States, there are about 7 million cases right now,” Rapscak said. “Several hundred thousand in Arizona. The numbers are growing, and we expect a doubling the number of cases in the next several years or so.”

The Alzheimer’s Association, which had a booth at the fair, reports there are about 150,000 people in Arizona living with Alzheimer’s.

Banner Health told13 News that they try to host these events multiple times a year so that residents are aware of their local resources.

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