Community Leadership in Brain Health: Memory & Thought Conversations

Dr. Kathryn Kelly

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April 22, 2026

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community-centered initiative focused on brain health awareness

We are proud to participate in Memory & Thought Conversations / Addressing Stigma, a community-centered initiative focused on brain health awareness in Black and Latino communities. As a trusted partner in health and wellness, we believe that bringing these vital conversations to the forefront is essential for the long-term well-being of our community.

Why This Conversation Matters Now

The statistics surrounding brain health in our communities are significant and require our collective attention. By 2030, nearly 40% of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease will be Black or Latino. Furthermore, amyloid buildup in the brain, which can cause memory and thinking issues over time, can start up to 20 years before symptoms of Alzheimer's disease appear.

This reality makes early education, open dialogue, and community awareness critical. Early conversations about brain health help reduce stigma, encourage monitoring and timely testing, and promote healthy lifestyle choices that support cognitive well-being.

Watch: Memory & Thought Conversations

Watch the Memory & Thought Conversations video on YouTube

We invite you to watch this important conversation and share it with your loved ones and community members. Your involvement helps break the silence and shift the culture from fear to action.

Taking Action for Your Brain Health

Caring for the whole person includes caring for brain health. You can take proactive steps today by incorporating habits that support your cognitive well-being:

  • Nutrition: Focus on nutritious eating to fuel your brain.
  • Physical Activity: Engage in regular movement and exercise.
  • Social Connection: Maintain meaningful connections with friends, family, and community.
  • Spiritual Engagement: Participate in ongoing spiritual and community activities.

Together, we can protect minds, strengthen families, and shift the future of brain health one conversation at a time.

Learn More

Visit AlzInColor.com for additional resources, tools, and to help normalize brain health conversations.

#MemoryAndThought #BrainHealth #AlzheimersAwareness #AlzInColor #AddressingStigma #HealthEquity #CommunityCare

About the Author
Dr. Kathryn Kelly
Board-Certified Internal Medicine Physician

Dr. Kathryn Kelly is a Board-Certified Internal Medicine Physician working in the Washington, DC area since 2013 after completing her National Health Service Corp obligation in Albany, GA. Dr. Kelly received her undergraduate degrees from Howard University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology.

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