DAVENPORT, IOWA (February 8, 2021) — During Black History Month in February, the Alzheimer’s Association is recognizing the contributions from Black individuals making a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. The need for strong voices and advocacy on behalf of Black communities has never been greater because African-Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease as older white Americans.
Paul Rich is a Support Group Facilitator for the Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter and the Bereavement Coordinator at Heartland Hospice Care. In both of these roles, he is dedicated to helping families navigate the challenges they face in their journey with Alzheimer’s or dementia. He is also a Board Certified Music Therapist, and he weaves this into his work with his patients and families.
“Music therapy is a powerful way to meet people where there are, and the connection to music is universal. I provide music therapy to help create a calming and comforting environment for the patients and families I work with,” says Paul. “It is a beautiful way to learn a person’s story.”
As a Support Group Facilitator for the Alzheimer’s Association, Paul is helping to create more support groups and spread awareness as well. He is also connected to the disease because his grandmother passed away from Alzheimer's when he was a junior in high school. He remembers she started showing signs of early-onset dementia when he was in grade school, and it was a long decline until she passed.
Not only are African-Americans twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, but they are also more likely to be diagnosed in the later stages of the disease, when individuals are more cognitively and physically impaired. Early detection and diagnosis can allow for earlier use of available treatments that may provide some relief of symptoms and help maintain independence longer.
Volunteers like Paul and other Black voices in the fight to end Alzheimer’s are critical to spread awareness and provide support for the African American community. To learn more visit alz.org or call the 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.
