June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia that affect millions of individuals and families each year. In El Paso County, this disease affects many people in our community, with an estimated 16,200 people aged 65 and older are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Data from the Alzheimer’s Association highlights that El Paso faces a unique health challenge compared to the rest of the country:
- One of the Highest Rates in the Nation: El Paso is tied with Laredo for the highest Alzheimer’s prevalence rate in Texas, and it ranks 9th in the United States.
- 15% Prevalence: Approximately 15% of El Paso’s population aged 65 and older is living with the condition, compared to the overall Texas state average of 11.9%.
The Alzheimer’s Association also estimates that 7.4 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease in 2026, and nearly three-quarters of those individuals are age 75 or older. As the number of older adults continues to grow, understanding the signs of cognitive decline becomes increasingly important for patients and their loved ones.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and behavior. While some changes in memory can be a normal part of aging, Alzheimer’s disease causes symptoms that gradually interfere with daily activities, independence, and quality of life.
Because symptoms often develop slowly, they can be easy to overlook in the early stages. Recognizing when memory concerns may require medical attention is an important step toward obtaining support and care.
Recognizing the Signs
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), several warning signs may indicate cognitive changes that go beyond typical age-related forgetfulness.
These signs can include:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Difficulty planning, solving problems, or managing finances
- Trouble completing familiar tasks at home or in the community
- Confusion about dates, time, or location
- Problems with vision, reading, or judging distances
- Difficulty finding words or following conversations
- Frequently misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
- Changes in judgment or decision-making
- Withdrawal from social activities or hobbies
- Noticeable changes in mood, personality, or behavior
Experiencing one of these symptoms does not necessarily mean a person has Alzheimer’s disease. However, persistent or worsening changes should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
The Importance of Early Evaluation
Many people delay seeking care because they assume memory loss is simply part of getting older. While aging can affect memory, significant cognitive changes should not be ignored.
An evaluation can help identify the cause of symptoms and any conditions affecting memory or thinking. An early diagnosis can also help patients and families understand their options, plan ahead, and connect with available resources and support.
Caring for Our Community
Alzheimer’s disease affects more than the individual receiving the diagnosis. Family members, caregivers and loved ones often play a critical role in providing support throughout the journey.
During Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, taking time to learn the signs of cognitive decline can help families recognize concerns earlier and seek guidance when needed.
At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), we are committed to supporting patients and families through every stage of care. Whether addressing memory concerns, managing chronic conditions, or promoting healthy aging, our healthcare teams are dedicated to helping our community access the resources and care they need.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect and manage potential risks. At UMC, our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
