Every November, we observe National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, a time to reflect on a condition that affects millions of lives, including patients, families, and caregivers. At University Medical Center of El Paso, we want to help spread awareness and encourage proactive steps toward brain health.
Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form of dementia, globally and in the U.S. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alzheimer’s accounts for 60‑80% of all dementia cases. In 2025, an estimated 7.2 million Americans aged 65 or older are living with Alzheimer’s, that’s roughly 1 in 9 people over 65.
Alzheimer’s disease is not just a statistic. It’s a growing public‑health challenge, and awareness is the first step toward change.
5 Things You Can Do for Brain Health
While some risk factors for Alzheimer’s, such as age or genetics, are beyond our control, research shows there are modifiable ways to support brain health and possibly reduce risk. At University Medical Center of El Paso, we encourage:
- Stay physically active. Regular exercise supports cardiovascular health, which in turn helps maintain good blood flow to the brain, key for preserving brain function.
- Maintain a healthy diet. Balanced nutrition, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins, can support overall brain health.
- Keep your brain engaged. Lifelong learning, reading, puzzles, social interaction, or any mentally stimulating activity may help build cognitive reserve.
- Manage cardiovascular risk factors. Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and maintaining a healthy weight are all linked to a lower risk of dementia.
- Prioritize sleep and mental well‑being. Good sleep, stress management, and social connection support healthy brain aging.
These are not guaranteed “prevention” methods, but they are safe, healthy practices with benefits for overall well‑being.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call 1-800-473-8440 or 915-479-3484 today to schedule an appointment, or visit www.umcelpaso.org to learn more.
