As the Latino elderly population grows rapidly, so do the number of Latinos vulnerable to chronic diseases and conditions. However, cultural barriers and structural obstacles hinder many from receiving the proper information or treatment.

Dr. Maria Marquine works at the Neuropsychology Service of the Rush Department of Behavioral Sciences in collaboration with the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center. Marquine joined the efforts to increase the center’s study of Latinos and an “important portion” of the patients she sees are Spanish-speaking Latinos.

“Given the advances in medicine, the biggest health issues in older adults across ethnic groups are chronic conditions. Some of the most important chronic conditions in Latinos, both because of their high prevalence and impact on functioning, are arthritis, vascular disease, diabetes, dementia and depression,” said Marquine.

The Oro Latino Open Forum Breakfast is a gathering of healthcare professionals, specialists, advocates and community leaders to discuss Latinos over the age of 65 and the serious health issues and barriers they face. The forum was created in 2009.

“I’m really, really excited to see all of you here because that really means that you all are committed to the Latino community,’ said Antonia Gamez, 53, chair of the Oro Latino group.

According to Dr. Bryan James, the first presenter at the event, the population of older Latino adults is growing fast. By 2050, 20 percent of all people over 65 will be Latino.

James, also from the Rush Alzheimer’s disease Center, shared many key statistics about the future of Alzheimer’s in Latinos. It is projected that the number of Latinos living with Alzheimer’s will increase to 1.3 million in 2050 from 200,000 in 2005, James said.

One of the primary risk factors for Alzheimer’s affecting Latinos is education. Lower or less quality education can result in a greater risk for cognitive decline. According to James, Latinos have the lowest level of education in the U.S. as a group. One in 10 Latino elders has no formal education.

Other diseases or conditions may also trigger Alzheimer’s. According to Marquine, “Vascular disease risk factors, such as diabetes and hypertension, may also be risk factors for cognitive decline in the elderly. Latinos have high rates of these vascular disease factors, particularly diabetes.”

Latino elders are also dealing with barriers to health services and access to programs that may ...