Research consistently shows that dementia rates are higher in Black communities. Yet systemic inequities within our healthcare system create significant barriers to timely diagnosis, culturally responsive care, and access to essential supports. Too often, this results in delayed care and increased strain on families and care partners who are already carrying so much. 

Watch Dementia In The Afro Community – a three-part series

We are proud to spotlight a powerful three-part special, Dementia in the Afro-Caribbean Community, developed in partnership with Caribbean Vibrations TV and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario.

This groundbreaking series amplifies the stories, challenges, and resilience of Afro-Caribbean families, caregivers, and experts—voices that have too often gone unheard. More than television, it sparks a vital conversation our community needs.

The series includes an impactful panel discussion exploring the role of caregivers—what to expect, how to prepare, and how to navigate a journey that is both challenging and deeply meaningful.

Together, let’s break the silence and raise awareness.

Moderator, Ngozi Iroanyah, Director of Health Equity and Access at Alzheimer Society of Ontario

Panelists Part One: Dr Mireille Norris, BSc Phys Ther, MD, MHSc, FRCPC Internist and Geriatrician at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto. Dr. Onye Nnorom Family Physician, Public Health and Preventive Medicine specialist Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto and Jennifer Oteng, MN Geriatric Outreach Nurse at William Osler Health System.

Panelists Part Two: Dr Ingrid Waldron, PhD, MA Professor, HOPE Chair, Global Peace and Social Justice Dr. Caron Leid, PhD, MBA, QRSW Counsellor, Author

Panelists Part Three: Carolyn Neblett, MSW, Social Work BSO Community Lead, Alzheimer Society of Toronto, Dr Ingrid Waldron, PhD, MA Professor, HOPE Chair, Global Peace and Social Justice Minnelle Williams, End of Life Educator Founder, Ending Well with Minnelle Christiana Edi, RN, CDCES, RHN, GMHT Founder of Alexis Lodge, Author

The Need for Change

Our Landmark Study, Volume 2 (2024), estimates that in 2020, approximately 4,800 people of African ancestry in Canada were living with dementia — a number projected to rise to more than 29,100 by 2050, a 507% increase. Within the study there are recommendations on what needs to happen to help address the increase in cases that are coming and deal with the inequities that exist within the health care system. Among the recommendations are collecting race-based data within healthcare systems, involving community members in the co-design of culturally appropriate dementia resources, improving access to culturally responsive testing and care, and directly addressing racism within healthcare and social support systems. 

At the Alzheimer Society of Toronto, supporting underserved communities across the city is one of the four strategic priorities guiding our 2026–2030 plan. We are committed to turning the awareness raised during Black History Month into meaningful, measurable action over the next four years. Together, we can build a future where equity is embedded in care — and where no one faces dementia alone.