In conjunction with Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, I want to share some highlights from the latest Facts and Figures report released by the Alzheimer’s Association®. The report provides an annual look at the latest national Alzheimer’s statistics and information on prevalence, incidence, mortality and morbidity, costs of care, and caregiving, both nationally and state-by-state.
Quick Facts: Alzheimer’s Statistics
- More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. By 2050, this number is projected to rise to nearly 14 million.
- Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.
- One-in-three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. It kills more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.
- In 2020, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost the nation $305 billion. By 2050, these costs could rise as high as $1.1 trillion.
- More than 16 million Americans provide unpaid care for people living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. These caregivers provided an estimated 18.6 billion hours of care valued at nearly $244 billion.
- 50% of primary care physicians believe that the medical profession is not ready for the growing number of people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.
- Between 2000 and 2018, deaths from heart disease have decreased by 7.8%, while deaths from Alzheimer’s have increased by 146%.
The more people know about Alzheimer’s, the more action we inspire. Diagnosis can empower people living with Alzheimer’s and their families to face their situation, seek help, and plan for the future.
To learn more about Alzheimer’s statistics, visit the Alzheimer’s Association® Facts and Figures.
