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Alzheimer’s Disease – U.S. Facts & Figures

elderly couple sitting together for comfort

It’s World Alzheimer’s Month this September, and we’d like to shine a light on the breadth and depth of Alzheimer’s disease here in the U.S. Take a look at these facts reported by the Alzheimer’s Association:

An estimated 6.5 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia in 2022. By 2050, the number of people age 65 and older with Alzheimer's dementia is projected to reach 12.7 million.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for an estimated 60% to 80% of cases.

About 1 in 9 people (10.7%) age 65 and older has Alzheimer’s dementia. Risk increases with age. About one-third of people age 85 and older have Alzheimer’s dementia. Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women.

Older non-Hispanic Blacks and Hispanic Americans are disproportionately more likely than older Whites to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias. For those who have mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease, 30% to 50% will progress to Alzheimer’s dementia within 10 years.

Almost 4 out of 5 Americans express concerns about seeing a doctor about symptoms of mild cognitive impairment; many fear getting an incorrect diagnosis.

Researchers believe that Alzheimer’s begins 20 years or more before the onset of symptoms. “Remaining socially and mentally active throughout life may support brain health and possibly reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias.” Almost half of nursing home residents are living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.

While we can’t cure Alzheimer’s disease, the clinical leadership team at GuideStar Eldercare is pioneering models of care and advancing regulatory compliance to help improve diagnoses, treatment, medication management, and clinical outcomes for nursing home residents with Alzheimer’s and/or other forms of dementia. Learn more

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