BLOOMINGTON – The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter and Indiana Pride of Color will host “Pride in Mind,” a roundtable discussion on the impact of Alzheimer’s and dementia on LGBTQIA+ people of color.
The event will be held Saturday, August 17, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Monroe Convention Center in Bloomington. All community members and their allies are invited and encouraged to attend. Participants will have the opportunity to share their stories and perspectives on the community’s needs, including those living with the disease, caregivers, families, and chosen families. There will also be information about resources for those affected and ways to get involved. Brunch and goodie bags will be provided.
Older Black Americans are twice as likely as older white Americans to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Older Hispanics are one and a half times as likely. These populations are also less likely to receive a diagnosis and access support services to help them through their journey. LGBTQIA+ individuals often face particular challenges related to Alzheimer’s and dementia, such as finding inclusive and welcoming healthcare providers, less ability to call upon adult children for assistance, concerns about stigma, and higher rates of poverty due to discrimination.
“Just like the rest of the population, the LGBTQIA+ community is aging, and it is critically important that everyone feels comfortable accessing the resources available to them,” said Vivien Carter, director of diversity, equity and inclusion, Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter. “Alzheimer’s and dementia have a disproportionate impact on Black, Hispanic, and LGBTQIA+ individuals, and the intersections of those identities can lead to even greater disparities. This event is an opportunity for members of this community to raise their voices and help us take a step forward when it comes to health equity.”
Registration is free and available at alz.org/Indiana/programs.
