Numbers are predicted to more than double by 2030 for African Americans aged 65 and over who are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and other related dementias. The Community Advisory Board (CAB) at the Indiana Alzheimer's Disease Research Center aims to reach the under-represented communities in Indianapolis and the surrounding area to share information about healthy aging and brain health. Through this effort, the board plans to increase people of color participating in screening and assessments through education, outreach and research study participation.
10 percent
of people over 65 have a dementing disorder
Every 65 sec
someone develops Alzheimer's
6.9 million
African Americans are predicted to have Alzheimer's by 2030
Education
Indiana Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and the Alzheimer’s Association provide educational information so CAB members stay up to date on memory disorder topics and research. Board members get to know expert faculty members and attend Alzheimer's disease presentations, health fairs and conferences.
Additionally, members shadow experienced members at events, practice outreach and educational skills through role-playing, and complete cultural competence education, which is vital in order to better understand the people targeted as research participants. This also helps groups of people with cultural differences work together effectively in an effort to foster trust.
Member Recruitment
The board values the opportunity to collaborate with people within the community who want to participate in research and be involved with the center's outreach and engagement endeavors. Individuals are encouraged to get involved if they have a passion for Alzheimer's disease research, a personal dementia-related history or caregiving story, a connection to the community, involved with the medical community and/or comfortable with faith-based community outreach.
Additionally, individuals who demonstrate cultural competence and humility, reflect the community they serve and represent other professions that interact with older adults and underrepresented communities are also encouraged to get involved.
Outreach Opportunities
The Indianapolis community is vital to the center's ability to thrive and provide research that reflects the people who live in central Indiana. The center's takes initiative by getting to know the community, understanding its demographics, learning the needs and barriers that people encounter. Additionally, the board attends and collaborates with local and national health fairs, family reunions, town hall meetings, local community presentations and organizations, live theatre, Lunch and Learn events, and faith-based services/meetings.
Indiana Health
Hoosier couple dedicated to promoting importance of research in underrepresented communities
One of the priorities of the Indiana Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (IADRC) at Indiana University School of Medicine is to connect with diverse communities who are at higher risk for Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Husband and wife duo, Ralph and Mollie Richards, have been leaders in this crucial mission.