Sylvia Waller has made a difference in many people’s lives. She was a care provider for her father as his Alzheimer’s disease progressed. Using the lessons learned as inspiration, she has served as a community volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Association, leading community education classes and using her platform as Mrs. Colorado 2022 to raise awareness of the risk the disease poses to the Black community.

Now, the Aurora resident is serving as a role model. She has been recognized by the National Council of Negro Women, Denver Section. It’s just the latest honor for Waller, who was name one of the African Americans Who Make a Difference by the Denver Urban Spectrum.

“Sylvia Waller knows first-hand the challenges of caregiving for her father without support and resources before his passing in 2017,” said Rosalyn Reese, director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado. “We appreciate how she has used her pageantry platform as a meaningful opportunity to raise awareness and connect people to resources the Alzheimer’s Association offers, and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.” 

Waller has made Alzheimer’s education a personal cause. Recognizing that Black Americans have double the risk of developing the fatal disease that Whites do, she has become an evangelist, bringing information to her community.

“That higher risk is intriguing to me,” Waller said. “My doctor said that my blood pressure and blood sugar were up and could create issues for me. I changed my diet. I exercise. If you’re at higher risk for developing dementia, at least do your part to maintain a healthy body and you can fight against it better.”

Waller added that learning about the valuable educational programs and support groups available through the Alzheimer’s Association can make a big difference in the approach caregivers take to the disease and helping their own family.

“I felt very much alone,” she said. “There’s help available, including helping caregivers understand the importance of self-care so they can be there for their loved one. You don’t have to do this alone.”

To learn more about the information, programs and services offered at no charge by the Alzheimer's Association, go to alz.org or call the Association’s free 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.

Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.™ For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.

https://www.alz.org/co/news/an-alzheimers-champion-among-african-americans-who