Brain health, heart health and African Americans

Your heart works hard. So does your brain. Every heartbeat pumps about one-fifth of your blood to your brain. Your brain cells need the oxygen and nutrients carried by your blood so you can think clearly, speak and remember.

Conditions that damage your heart and blood vessels can interfere with the brain’s vital supply lines. Many risk factors for heart disease and stroke also threaten brain health:   

• High blood pressure
• Being overweight
• High cholesterol
• Lack of exercise
• Diabetes (high blood sugar)

We know that African-Americans have a higher risk for diabetes, high blood pressureand other cardiovascular risk factors. Partner with your doctor to watch for early warning signs of these conditions so you can get them under control.

Brain health, heart health fact sheet

More about brain health

Educational programs about Alzheimer's disease

To register for the following programs call 303.813.1669.

Understanding Memory Loss and Dementia
Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. Learn the differences between Alzheimer's, other dementias and normal memory loss.  You will learn about the Alzheimer's disease process, the programs offered by the Alzheimer’s Association and the community resources available.

Alzheimer’s Basics
What are the differences between Alzheimer’s, other dementias and normal memory loss due to aging?  Learn about the Alzheimer’s disease process, the programs offered by the Colorado Chapter and the community resources available.

Memory Loss, Diabetes & Heart Disease: Is there a link?
Latinos and African Americans have the highest incidences of diabetes and heart disease. If you have Type II diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, are at risk of developing any of these or of stroke, this session is for you. Learn about the importance of good brain health in an effort to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s.

Know the 10 Signs
This program offers information about the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s. Learn what to look, and how to distinguish what is typical from what is not.

Caregiving Tips: Successful Communication
The ability to communicate effectively with your loved one can make your job as a caregiver easier and increase the quality of life and safety for the person with dementia. This class covers successful communication skills for interacting with people with dementia.

Maintain Your Brain
Learn more about your brain and how to keep it fit.

African American Caregiver Support Groups
For African-American caregivers, family or friends who deal with the daily challenges of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementias we provide support and encouragement in a confidential setting and at no cost.  Meet other African-American caregivers and learn more about the disease, caregiving issues, and suggestions on how to take care of yourself. 

Denver
2nd Saturday of every month, 11:00 a.m.
Alzheimer’s Association
455 Sherman St, 5th Floor
Denver, CO 80203
303-813-1669 ext. 219 for more information

Colorado Springs
Beginning February 2010
2nd Wednesday of every month, 6:30 p.m.
Penrose Public Library
20 N. Cascade Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
719-266-8773 for more information