She used to remember everything.
What we wore to kindergarten. The recipe without measuring. The gospel song that calmed our fears. Our entire childhood—etched in her mind like scripture.
But now, she struggles to remember what day it is. She forgets names. She asks the same question five times in one hour. And sometimes, the woman who remembered everything… forgets who we are.
I’m not sharing this as a doctor today.
I’m sharing this as a daughter. A niece. A caregiver.
Someone experiencing the heartbreak of Alzheimer’s right now in my own family.
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month—and for many of us, it’s not just a campaign. It’s a crisis.
The Impact on Black & Brown Families
Alzheimer’s doesn’t hit all communities equally.
Black women are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s as white women.
Latinas? One and a half times more likely.
And yet—we’re often diagnosed later, treated less aggressively, and supported with fewer resources.
We’ve normalized “just getting old” and “mama’s forgetfulness” for too long. But memory loss isn’t always just aging—it can be the early signs of something more serious. And catching it early can mean a world of difference.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore:
- Repeating the same story or question often
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Difficulty following recipes or paying bills
- Mood swings or withdrawing from social situations
- Confusing times, people, or places
- Struggling to find the right words
If you’re seeing these patterns in a loved one, don’t wait. Ask questions. Speak up. Seek help.
Prevention Isn’t Perfect, But It’s Powerful
There’s no cure for Alzheimer’s yet, but certain lifestyle shifts can reduce risk and delay progression:
✔️ Stay mentally active: Puzzles, reading, learning
✔️ Prioritize heart health: Exercise, blood pressure, and cholesterol control
✔️ Eat brain-smart: Leafy greens, berries, fish, nuts
✔️ Social connection: Isolation speeds cognitive decline
✔️ Manage chronic conditions: Diabetes, depression, and sleep issues matter
Dignity in the Details
Watching someone you love fade in pieces is devastating. But here’s what I’ve learned from walking through this journey personally:
- Speak their name often
- Don’t correct harshly—redirect gently
- Use photos and music as memory anchors
- Care for the caregiver—especially if you are that person
Above all else: Give them dignity. Alzheimer’s may take pieces of memory—but it doesn’t erase their worth.
You Are Not Alone
Whether you’re just noticing signs… or in the thick of caregiving… I see you.
This disease doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed—it affects entire families.
Let’s stop whispering about it. Let’s stop delaying conversations.
Early awareness saves more than just time. It saves moments. It saves relationships. It saves peace.
With Love, Truth, and Advocacy,
Dr. Robyn White, DNP
Survivor. Advocate. Daughter.
(And right now—family caregiver.)
🟣 June is the time to learn.
Don’t wait until she forgets your name to start asking the right questions.
📌 Visit Alzheimer’s Association for resources and support
📩 Stay connected at DrRobynWhite.com