TYLER, Texas — As East Texas’s population continues to grow and age, local health officials are seeing a rise in dementia cases, according to Dr. Andrew Schmitt, director of neuropsychology at the University of Texas at Tyler. Texas ranks third nationwide for Alzheimer’s disease and second for Alzheimer’s‑related deaths, placing a heavy emotional and financial burden on families.
Clinic opens to provide early testing and support
In response to the mounting need, the Alzheimer’s Alliance of Smith County has welcomed the new UT Health Neuropsychology Clinic on its campus. The clinic expands early‑dementia testing and places a support team right next door, allowing families to receive diagnosis, counseling, and care coordination without traveling far.
“This is just a full‑circle moment for us, because it’s a more rounded care right here in our facility,” said Bonnie Varner, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Alliance. “Families can get the testing they need and then walk next door for the support services that follow.”
Why early diagnosis matters for families
Early identification of dementia allows caregivers to plan for medical, legal, and financial needs while the affected individual can still participate in decision‑making. It also opens the door to community resources, support groups, and therapeutic interventions that can improve quality of life.
Dr. Schmitt emphasized that timely testing is especially critical in rural and semi‑urban areas like East Texas, where access to specialty care has historically required long drives to larger cities. “Having a neuropsychology clinic right here means we can catch cognitive changes sooner and connect families with the right resources,” he explained.
Community impact and next steps
The clinic’s opening aligns with broader efforts by local nonprofits, churches, and senior centers to raise awareness about dementia and reduce stigma. Educational workshops and caregiver‑training sessions are planned for the coming months, with many faith‑based groups already expressing interest in partnering.
Residents are encouraged to contact the Alzheimer’s Alliance of Smith County for information on screening appointments, support groups, and educational events. The clinic will operate Monday through Friday, with appointments available for both new and returning patients.
Looking ahead
As the senior population in Tyler and surrounding counties continues to expand, officials anticipate that demand for neuropsychology services will grow. The partnership between the Alzheimer’s Alliance and UT Health aims to serve as a model for other East Texas communities seeking to address the rising tide of dementia with compassion, faith‑based support, and evidence‑based care.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
