A recent research article within the journal Alzheimer and Dementia – Translational Research and Clinical Interventions describes the impact of an art-based knowledge translation initiative, named Unforgettable, on underrepresented groups and communities. This initiative employed culturally relevant art and live performances to engage a wide range of people with the view to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, reduce stigma, and enhance willingness to participate in clinical trials. Underrepresented populations, such as older Black African Americans, are often at greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, however, they are less likely to receive a diagnosis and experience greater delays in management. Further, they are less likely to receive expensive novel therapies due to socioeconomic factors. Part of the problem in obtaining a diagnosis and accessing clinical trials is low trust amongst these communities, which has arisen as a result of historical injustices, as well as systemic inequalities.
Unforgettable aimed to address some of these problems, the development team also engaged the support of the Alzheimer’s Association Healthy Equity Coalition to enhance implementation. Surveys were circulated after performances, analysis of the surveys collected demonstrated that amongst 334 people from ten cities who attended the event, satisfaction levels were high, and over 80% agreed or strongly agreed that the arts-based intervention gave them insights and knowledge on the importance of: 1) recognising signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias; 2) finding support and 3) taking part in clinical trials. The authors acknowledged some of the limitations of their investigation, notably weaknesses in the data collection process which did not have a ‘before’ measure and was based on convenience (i.e. willingness to take part in the survey). Nevertheless, they conclude that the Unforgettable initiative holds promise in reducing health disparities. More information on this study is available here: