The Alzheimer’s Association named June Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness in 2014 to initiate conversation and enhance education around brain health. Since then, we dedicate this month to raising awareness on Alzheimer’s disease and brain health, providing support to patients and caregivers, and promoting brain health overall.

At Gonzaba Medical Group, our healthcare professionals prioritize preventative health for our patients in the clinic through individualized healthcare plans and outside of the clinic through various resources. Today, we will hear from a trusted Gonzaba primary care doctor who will guide us through the basics of Alzheimer’s disease, common signs and symptoms, tips for brain health as well as how to care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Lastly, Gonzaba Medical Group wants to ensure that our patients’ caregivers have access to the resources they need.

“If someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it can be overwhelming—but there are clear and practical steps that can help manage the disease and plan for the future.” – Dr. Miguel Palacios

Alzheimer’s Disease and Risk Factors

Alzheimer’s disease is a disorder that affects the brain, causing decline in various cognitive functions such as memory, thinking and behavior. The decline in cognitive function can result in a variety of symptoms that affect an individual’s daily life.

Dr. Palacios tells us that early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can be subtle and often mistaken for normal aging. However, when these symptoms begin to interfere with daily life, they may be early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease.

There are two main categories of risk factors, non-modifiable risk factors which are ones you cannot change, and modifiable risk factors, which are ones you do have control over and can change.

Non-modifiable risk factors, which are factors out of your control, include age, with people over the age of 65 being most at risk. Other factors include family history, genetics, sex, race and ethnicity. Being a woman, having an immediate family member with Alzheimer’s, and being a Hispanic or Black American all raise your risk of Alzheimer’s. If you have any of these non-modifiable risk factors, talk to your doctor about creating a preventive health plan that fits your needs.

Modifiable risk factors, which are factors that are in your control, include heart health issues, diabetes, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol use, sleep disorders, depression, chronic stress, social isolation, low physical activity and low cognitive engagement.

There are three stages of Alzheimer’s disease

The three stages of Alzheimer’s disease present themselves differently in every individual, and their progression varies from person to person. Symptoms include memory loss, concentration and attention difficulties, mood, personality and behavioral changes as well as loss of awareness and communication difficulties. Find more information about the three stages of Alzheimer’s Disease here.

To best understand what stage of Alzheimer’s disease you or your loved one is in, it is important to stay in contact with a primary care doctor. At Gonzaba Medical Group, our primary care doctors already focus on creating individualized healthcare plans for every patient.

“While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, a combination of medical, lifestyle and behavioral strategies can make a real difference.” -Dr. Palacios

Gonzaba’s trusted primary care doctors and team of healthcare professionals will help you identify if a diagnosis is necessary. If it is, they will guide you through your personalized healthcare journey and create a plan to slow down the progression of the disease through medication and lifestyle changes.

If you are not experiencing any signs or symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, it is still beneficial to practice preventative measures and keep your brain healthy!

Reducing the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

To reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, focus on making proactive lifestyle changes. Dr. Palacios tells us that research shows certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and promote brain health. These evidence-based preventative measures include:

• High quality sleep
• Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and healthy fats
• Adopt healthy habits by reducing or eliminating alcohol and tobacco
• Stay mentally active by engaging in activities such as puzzles and reading
• Be physically active and participate in at least 150 minutes of exercise a week

Alzheimer’s Diagnosis: How to Manage it or Care for a Loved One

“Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease comes with challenges and it is important to know when to ask for help or reach out to family and friends.” -Dr. Palacios

It is important to have a proper understanding of the disease and what stage you, or your loved one, is in. Remember there are three stages: early, middle and late. In the early stages, an individual can still care for themselves and go about their daily routine with partial aid with organization and planning. In the middle stages, individuals might have increased memory loss and need help with daily tasks such as eating, bathing and dressing. When an individual enters the late stages of Alzheimer’s disease, they most likely require continuous care and supervision, with an around-the-clock caregiver being the best option. If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, talk to their primary care doctor to create a plan that will best meet their needs.

Caregivers, Gonzaba Medical Group is Here to Help!

Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are various ways to reduce the side effects and manage the disease. Follow doctor’s orders in regard to medication and lifestyle changes to improve your loved one’s quality of life. Aid your loved one in practicing cognitive engagement exercises, moderate physical activity and encourage them to eat a healthy diet.

Additionally, ensure your loved one is comfortable and safe in their home by removing hazards that could cause confusion. Secure rugs or remove them all together, clear clutter and make sure the space is well-lit with overhead lights and lamps.

As a caregiver, it can be difficult to care for a loved one on your own, and it can be easy to focus on them and forget your own needs. Recognize when you need help and don’t be afraid to ask for it. Don’t hesitate to lean on your support system and remember to care for yourself as well. If you are a caregiver and you need further assistance, please call your loved one’s Gonzaba primary care doctor and schedule an appointment to go over any questions you may have. For further guidance and resources, we recommend the Alzheimer’s Association website.

Gonzaba Medical Group is here for YOU 

If you are unsure where to start, Gonzaba Medical Group can help! Check out or monthly event center calendars and find events for seniors, free of charge for anyone aged 62+. We have three event centers that offer exercise classes, socials and educational classes – that’s three great ways to take action and improve your brain health! Start today. Follow us on Facebook to find the event center closest to you, check out our monthly event calendars and join us for our next class.

Find the Gonzaba Event Center closest to you! 

Woodlawn Event Center
902 Bandera Rd. San Antonio, TX, 78228
[Get Directions]

South Event Center
933 Pleasanton Road San Antonio, TX, 78214
[Get Directions] 

North Central Event Center
6487 Blanco Rd. San Antonio, TX, 78216
[Get Directions]

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Gonzaba Medical Group prides themselves on providing high quality healthcare to the San Antonio Seniors, prioritizing preventative care and educating our patients to the best of our ability. Remember to ask your primary care doctor before making any drastic lifestyle changes, so they can assist you in making the best decisions for your healthcare journey. Thank you for trusting Gonzaba Medical