About Alzheimer’s Disease
We are dedicated to transforming dementia care through patient care, education and innovative research and clinical trials.
Dementia is a group of brain disorders resulting in memory loss, difficulty in communicating, concentrating and making decisions. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia where brain cells degenerate, causing a steady decline in memory and mental function.
Alzheimer’s disease symptoms
Symptoms of dementia, like memory loss, can be related to normal aging or linked to other medical conditions, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis.
- Persisting and worsening memory loss
- Difficulty thinking and concentrating
- Difficulty making decisions, responding appropriately to everyday situations
- Familiar or routine activities become difficult to remember or complete
- Changes in personality and behavior
- Depression
- Mood swings, irritability and loss of inhibitions
- Changes in sleep habits
- Delusions
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s
Since there currently is not a single test to diagnose Alzheimer’s, a careful medical evaluation is needed.
During this time, we will also test for other conditions that may cause dementia like symptoms like depression, thyroid problem or a vitamin B12 deficiency among other conditions.
This evaluation will include:
- Review of your medical history
- Physical exam
- Neurological testing
- Psychiatric evaluation
- Cognitive and neuropsychological tests
- Genetic testing
- Laboratory testing
- Brain imaging
Alzheimer’s treatment
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet. There are new treatments available to slow the progression of the symptoms.
Treating Alzheimer’s includes medication and innovative therapies through clinical trials.
Learn more about clinical trials
Causes and risks of Alzheimer’s
Researchers believe, Alzheimer’s diseases is caused by a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors.
Alzheimer’s risk factors include:
- Age – risk increases greatly after the age of 65. Early-onset Alzheimer’s symptoms can begin in the 30s.
- First-degree relatives with the disease
- Down syndrome
- Being a female
- Mild cognitive impairment
- Severe head trauma
- Lifestyle/lack of exercise
- Obesity
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Poorly controlled type 2 diabetes
- Lack of education and social activities
Support groups for Alzheimer’s
Biggs Institute Caring for a Parent with Dementia Support Group
A peer and professionally led group for adults with parents diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
When: Every second Thursday 4:00-5:30pm
Where: UT Health San Antonio
WellMed SOS Caregivers: Virtual Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group
When: Every second and fourth Wednesday at 10:00-11:15am
For more information or to register, contact Cindy Robles at crobles11@wellmed.net or 210-254-1489.
*This group is not hosted by the Biggs Institute.
Resources for Alzheimer’s
Biggs Institute
Dedicated to providing comprehensive dementia care for patients and their families, the Biggs Institute offers advanced treatment with clinical trials, genetic testing and supportive, educational and enrichment programs.
Learn more
Alzheimer’s Association
Learn more about Alzheimer’s and get connected to support.
Learn more
To make an appointment, call
210-450-9960
Interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s disease?
Watch presentations featuring renowned physicians and scientists for open conversation on research regarding the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
