The Healthy Brain Initiative’s Road Map for Indian Country is the first-ever public health guide focused on dementia in American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) populations. The Road Map is designed to support discussion about dementia and caregiving within tribal communities and for AIAN people living in urban and other non-tribal settings and to encourage a public health approach—as part of a larger holistic response.

In the coming year, this guide will be updated. If you have used the Road Map for Indian Country or are interested in being involved in the update process, complete this short, four question interest form. This strategic guide is a key resource for tribal nations and those who serve AIAN people working to address cognitive impairment and support caregivers of people living with dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, and with greater age comes increased risk. Between 2014-2060, the number of American Indian and Alaska Natives aged 65 and older living with memory loss is projected to grow over five times. Today, one of every five American Indian and Alaska Native adults aged 45 and older reported experiencing subjective cognitive decline—increased difficulty in thinking or remembering over the past year—which can be a precursor to dementia.

For more information about supporting brain health in Indian Country, visit the International Association for Indigenous Aging.