#045-Dementia is one of the most important, but often overlooked, health care issues related to older African Americans. Research shows that African Americans are two to three times more likely to develop a dementia disorder (compared to European Americans) and at the same time are less likely to be diagnosed early in the disease process and provided with adequate treatment.Today's guest, Dr. Fayron Epps, Nurse Scientist and Assistant Professor at Emory University, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, is focused on changing this by improving access to resources and awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias in African American and faith communities by conducting research and providing education. Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Dr. Fayron Epps:[08:24] Dementia education is essential to caring for loved one's with dementia. Dr. Epps describes the importance of education and resources about dementia, in particular, in African American communities[13:32] Dr. Epps describes the role of African American churches as the cornerstone to the Black community and as a safe haven for many Black families. [16:57] Dr. Epps describes ways in which education about dementia transforms the caregiving experience. [20:07] With systemic racism and strained relationships with the health care system disproportionately affecting African Americans, Dr. Epps shares her personal testimony of working through her own mistrust with the health care system. [23:44] Dr. Epps provides recommendations to African American individuals and families about working through their own mistrust of the health care system[28:39] The number one recommendation Dr. Epps has for families concerned about an older loved one.  Click here to listen to the podcastDownload the Memory Loss Guide hereDownload the Caring for Aging Parents Checklist here.Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.Interested in working with me? For Families: Click hereFor Professionals: Click hereHelp others find this show and get tools for caregiving: My mission is to give you tools for caring for aging parents so you have peace of mind knowing you're doing everything you can to help your older loved one live their best life.You can help by sharing episodes, and subscribing to the podcast. Click here to subscribe in  iTunes!Then, leave a review. Your review will help other people find this podcast.I read them all. Thank you!--DISCLAIMER: The material on this site is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Koepp may make on the TV Show, blog, or in response to an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a psychologist-patient relationship between Dr. Koepp and the individual. None of Dr. Koepp's show, website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical or mental health assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Koepp is only representing herself in her TV Show, blogs, and on her website.