A recent study shows people with dementia are two times as likely to contract COVID-19 than those who don’t have it.
On top of that, the study shows Black Americans are three times as likely to get it.
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The study by the Journal of Alzheimers Association screened the electronic records of nearly 69 million Americans over age 18. It found those with dementia were two times as likely to contract COVID-19.
Keith Gibson, with the Southeast Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, said it’s something his organization has suspected since the pandemic began, pointing to one main reason.
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“Socioeconomic status being a biomarker and indicator of the onset of cognitive decline,” Gibson said.
Gibson said he hopes the study spurs a dialogue that leads to better vaccine access for minorities and continued education throughout all communities.
“Until we find a cure or a way to slow it down, we have to think outside the box,” he said.
