In the coming years, an overwhelming number of people in our community will reach the stage of life when they are at increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The primary risk factor for developing dementia is a person’s age. According to census data, Bexar County is home to 250,000 senior adults 65 and older, and the number is projected to grow as San Antonio is an attractive retirement destination.
The city’s population is more than 60 percent Hispanic. Data show Hispanics are 1.5 times more likely than Caucasians to develop dementia.
Justifiably, Express-News staff writer Eric Killelea called San Antonio “the geographic heart of the Texas struggle with Alzheimer’s disease” in a recent feature story, “Fight against Alzheimer’s boosted,” Front Page, Feb. 19.
Health leaders expect a tsunami of health care challenges related to dementia for this region.
To view the full story visit https://news.uthscsa.edu/commentary-san-antonio-is-building-a-national-resource-in-brain-health/