Dementia Incidence Highest Among African Americans

Research published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association and cited by Annals of Long-Term Care has found that dementia incidence rates in the United States are higher among African American and American Indian populations compared with other groups.

One of the first large-scale studies to examine these differences across diverse populations analyzed data from more than 274,000 members of Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. Researchers used electronic health records collected over a 14-year period—from January 2000 through December 2013—to identify individuals diagnosed with dementia and evaluate patterns by race and ethnicity.

The analysis included diagnoses of Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and other forms of cognitive impairment. The findings helped establish a clearer understanding that dementia risk varies across populations and is influenced by a combination of medical, social, and environmental factors.

More recent research continues to support these conclusions, highlighting the role of cardiovascular health, access to care, and social determinants of health in shaping dementia risk across different communities.

Familial Risk of Alzheimer’s is Higher with Racial Groups Than Others

The incident rates were highest for African-Americans, followed by American Indians/Native Alaskans, Latinos and Pacific Islanders, and whites. The lowest rate was shown for Asian Americans.

Even in the lowest risk groups in the study, the lifetime risk of developing dementia is high,” “Our projections indicate that in every racial and ethnic group, over one in four people who survive to age 65 can expect to be diagnosed with dementia in their lifetime.” — Rachel Whitmer, Ph.D., Epidemiologist at Kaiser Permanente Northern California, CA.

Planning experts indicate that these facts reinforce why people need to prepare for the financial costs and burdens that long-term health care places on the American family.

Don't Expect Health Insurance/Medicare to Pay for Long-Term Memory Care

You may assume your health insurance—or Medicare—will cover the cost of long-term memory care. That assumption can lead to costly surprises. The reality is that traditional health insurance and Medicare are designed to cover short-term medical needs, not ongoing help with daily activities or supervision due to cognitive decline. Medicare may pay for limited skilled care—typically up to 100 days following a qualifying hospital stay—but it does not cover long-term custodial care, including most memory care services.

Medicaid can help pay for long-term care, but only if you meet strict financial requirements. In most cases, that means having limited income and assets, often requiring you to spend down much of what you own before qualifying.

Without advance planning, the responsibility for care often shifts to your family or your savings. That can mean significant out-of-pocket costs, emotional strain, and difficult decisions during an already stressful time. Planning ahead—including considering Long-Term Care Insurance—can help you maintain control, protect your assets, and ensure access to quality care without placing the full burden on those you love.

Long-Term Care Insurance will pay for in-home care or care in a facility. You and your family will have choice and control over your future care.

Individuals mistakenly have been led to believe that Long-Term Care insurance costs thousands of dollars.” — Jesse Slome, executive director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance

Premiums are a fraction of the actual costs of long-term health care services. If your health is good and you act in your 40s and 50s, the premiums are very affordable. In fact, most people obtain coverage in their 50s. The key is to start planning early as part of retirement planning before retirement.

Some people may qualify for a public program to help pay for these (Long-Term Care) expenses, most people use a variety of options, including Long-Term Care insurance.” —  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Risk of Long-Term Care Increases with Age

As you get older, your chances of needing long-term care increase significantly. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 56% of Americans who reach age 65 will require long-term services and supports that meet the federal definition of care—meaning help with at least two activities of daily living or supervision due to cognitive impairment.

Memory loss is just one of many reasons people need extended care. Chronic illness, mobility limitations, and the natural effects of aging often make everyday tasks more difficult. In many cases, conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias require ongoing supervision, even in the early stages.

Risk is not the same for everyone. Research shows African Americans are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias than white Americans, with some studies indicating rates that are up to nearly twice as high. These differences are linked to higher rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and disparities in access to healthcare and early diagnosis.

Older African Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias than whites.” —  Carl V. Hill, chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer at the Alzheimer’s Association.

Understanding your personal and family risk is key. The need for long-term care—especially due to cognitive decline—can create significant financial and emotional strain. Planning ahead gives you more control over your care, helps protect your savings, and reduces the burden on those you love.

Dementia Impacts All of Us - Planning is Essential

You may think dementia is something that happens to other families. The reality is that it can affect anyone, often creating unexpected emotional and financial challenges. While some families face a higher genetic risk of Alzheimer’s disease, most cases of dementia are not strictly inherited. Researchers continue to find that a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental influences all play a role—and these factors can affect populations differently.

Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease, along with differences in access to care and early diagnosis, all contribute to dementia risk and outcomes. What remains consistent is this: when cognitive decline progresses, the need for long-term care often follows.

For many families, planning ahead is the most effective way to manage that reality. Long-Term Care Insurance helps provide access to care—whether at home, in assisted living, or in a nursing facility—while protecting your income and assets. Today’s policies are flexible and can be tailored to fit your goals and budget. Putting a plan in place before a health crisis gives you more control, more care options, and less burden on those you love.

Partnership Long-Term Care Insurance Offers Additional Asset Protection

Most states offer Partnership Long-Term Care Insurance that provides additional dollar-for-dollar asset protection. A partnership policy gives you an affordable way to safeguard your assets, no matter how long you may require care.

Be sure to find a qualified and experienced Long-Term Care Insurance specialist to help you design a plan and shop from among the major insurance companies. Working with a specialist ensures you understand your options, including benefit amounts, inflation protection, and how your policy will respond in different care settings. The right guidance can help you avoid costly mistakes and secure coverage that truly meets your future needs.

Taking action today—before health issues arise—can make coverage more affordable and easier to obtain. It also gives you greater confidence that you’ll have access to quality care while protecting your savings and reducing the burden on your family.

LTC Insurance is Affordable - Premiums Vary Between Companies

Premiums for Long-Term Care Insurance vary dramatically between companies for the same coverage. You should shop; a qualified specialist will help you navigate the many options, so you make the best selection. Find a trusted and experienced Long-Term Care Insurance specialist. 

With an affordable LTC policy in place, you will enjoy guaranteed benefits. It will protect your 401(k) IRA and other assets from the costs of longevity. Remember, planning for long-term care is more than just asset protection. It is about family. Give your family the time to be family, and you preserve savings, lifestyle, and legacy. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dementia and Long-Term Care Planning

What are the main causes of dementia?

Dementia is caused by a combination of factors, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular conditions, and other neurological disorders. Lifestyle factors such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure also increase risk, along with genetic and environmental influences.

Are some racial or ethnic groups at higher risk for dementia?

Yes. Research shows that dementia risk varies across populations. African Americans and some other minority groups are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias than white Americans. Experts link these differences to higher rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and disparities in access to healthcare and early diagnosis.

What percentage of people will need long-term care?

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 56% of Americans age 65 and older will require long-term care services that involve help with daily activities or supervision due to cognitive decline.

Does Medicare pay for long-term memory care?

No. Medicare only covers short-term skilled care, typically up to 100 days after a qualifying hospital stay. It does not pay for ongoing custodial care, including most memory care services.

Can Medicaid pay for long-term care?

Yes, Medicaid can cover long-term care services, including nursing home and some in-home care. However, you must meet strict income and asset requirements, often requiring you to spend down your savings to qualify.

What does Long-Term Care Insurance cover?

Long-Term Care Insurance helps pay for care in multiple settings, including:

• In-home care
• Assisted living
• Memory care
• Nursing home care

It provides flexibility and allows you to choose where and how you receive care.

When should you buy Long-Term Care Insurance?

The best time to purchase Long-Term Care Insurance is typically in your 40s or 50s when you are still in good health. Buying earlier can make coverage more affordable and easier to qualify for.

Is Long-Term Care Insurance expensive?

Many people assume it is costly, but premiums are often much lower than the actual cost of long-term care services. Costs vary by age, health, and coverage options, which is why comparing policies is important.

What is a Partnership Long-Term Care Insurance policy?

A Partnership policy allows you to protect assets equal to the amount your policy pays in benefits. This means you can qualify for Medicaid later without losing all your savings, providing additional financial security.

Why is planning for long-term care important?

Without planning, the cost of care often falls on your savings or your family. Preparing in advance helps protect your assets, ensures access to quality care, and reduces the emotional and financial burden on loved ones.