Alzheimer's Dementia Prevalence in Tarrant County: Demographics and Resources Available for Individuals and Families Affected

Purpose: This project aimed to investigate the prevalence of Alzheimer's Disease (AD), as well as the resources available to those suffering with AD in Tarrant county and the requirements for making use of them. Methods: Multiple searches were conducted in order to find AD demographics and resources available to those suffering from it. Further inquiries were made in order to find the conditions that must be met in order to be eligible to receive the benefits. Results: There are approximately 5.9 million Americans suffering from AD. In Tarrant County, AD was the 5th leading cause of death in 2016, and is most prevalent in the Non-Hispanic white population and those over the age of 65. There are many resources available, both online and in-person to those with AD and their families. The Arlington Adult Day Health Care Center offers adult daycare services, transportation within the Arlington area, and accepts multiple payment options. Other resources provide education to those supporting Alzheimer's patients, such as UNTHSC's GAPP C.A.R.E.S. program. Alzheimer's Texas offers low cost memory screenings to monitor the cognitive health of AD patients and support groups for their caregivers. The Alzheimer's North Central Texas Chapter offers a 24/7 helpline and free information on financing care for AD patients. Conclusion: Resources exist for those in Tarrant county that aid both patients with AD and their caregivers. Some function to aid the patients directly via adult daycare services, whereas others aim to help the caregivers via information and helpline services.