Abstract
Problem Identification This project identifies the unique public health challenges associated with Alzheimer’s disease among Latinos in San Joaquin County, California. Latinos are 1.5 times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than White Americans, and San Joaquin County has both a large Latino population and an Alzheimer’s death rate that is higher than the State or national average. Existing County resources are inadequate to address this disparity in Alzheimer’s outcomes.
Analysis
The section analyzes the factors contributing to Alzheimer’s disease in Latinos using the BARHII framework as a guiding model. The section also examines key determinants through the different levels of the Social Ecological Model. The program aims to increase early-stage Alzheimer’s intervention among the target population by addressing the factors associated with Latinos not seeking care.
Intervention (Solution) Proposal
The proposed intervention addresses existing deficiencies by providing resources in Spanish and promoting a community-based and culturally informed outreach program. The program will establish a connection with San Joaquin County residents to spread awareness of Alzheimer’s symptoms and available resources through education courses. The program will include a policy initiative to increase the availability of Spanish resources on the County website.
Implementation and Evaluation
Effective implementation will require personnel to work collaboratively to foster trust and cultural understanding within targeted communities. Leadership will devote meaningful time for relationship building among staff to build cultural competency and support the shared mission. The intervention will use process and summative evaluation methods to ensure the project is completed appropriately.