New film aims to spark conversation on Alzheimer’s disease in the Black community
A promotional ad for the film “My Mama Joe, Hope and Help", which takes a deeper look into issues surrounding Alzheimer's disease among African Americans Image Courtesy of Mama Joe Project
More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. The condition affects Black Americans at about twice the rate of their white peers and yet people of color are less likely to get diagnosed, and receive treatment in the early stages when those interventions would be most effective.
A new film – “My Mama Joe, Hope and Help” – explores some of the reasons behind these stark racial disparities, which includes structural racism that manifests itself in various ways across the health care system and in society.
The film's creator as well two medical professionals, who specialize in Alzheimer’s Research join the conversation.
GUESTS
Herb Caldwell
Producer and director of the film "My Mama Joe: Hope and Help"
Cindy Womack
Certified Nurse Practitioner at SIU Medicine’s Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment
Ann Jirmasek
Clinical Gerontology Specialist at SIU Medicine’s Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment