TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - Dementia cases are rising in East Texas as the population grows and ages, Dr. Andrew Schmitt, UT Tyler's director neuropsychology, said Monday.

Texas ranks third in the nation for Alzheimer's disease and second in Alzheimer's deaths.

Leaders say dementia places significant emotional and financial strain on families, underscoring the need for timely diagnosis, caregiver support and accessible care.