The Cost of Alzheimer’s Disease

The Alzheimer’s Association released their “2018 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures” report last spring.  In it, it shows that for the second consecutive year the total payments to care for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are estimated to exceed a quarter of a trillion dollars.  “The projected $277 billion total is an increase of almost $20 billion from last year. By 2050, costs are expected to surpass $1 trillion.”

The report also shows that the number of Americans who are afflicted with Alzheimer’s is growing every year.  It is estimated that 5.7 million people in our country have Alzheimer’s and every 65 seconds someone develops the disease.  Based on those figures, the Alzheimer’s Association now predicts that 14 million people will have the disease by 2050.  These numbers are making the disease one of the most expensive in the country.

However one important point highlighted in the report is the assumption that if more people are diagnosed in the early stages of the disease, it could save the country “as much as $7.9 trillion over the lifetimes of those living with it.”  Although there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, drug and non-drug treatments can help with both cognitive and behavioral symptoms.  The 2018 report says that an early diagnosis can also be beneficial to the person’s caregivers and family.

Keith Fargo, director of scientific programs and outreach for the Alzheimer's Association, states that "We must continue to attack Alzheimer's through a multidimensional approach that advances research while also improving support for people with the disease and their caregivers."  From 2000 to 2015, deaths from the disease increased 123 percent and Alzheimer’s is now the sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek is a senior living community devoted to the care of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our specially trained staff provides personalized care for residents using progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive joy. The goal of MorningStar’s methods is to affirm dignity and value of each resident and to support choice and independence as much as possible.  Please contact us to learn more.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional community.

Source: usnews.com/news/health-care-news/articles/2018-03-20/report-alzheimers-disease-will-cost-us-277b-in-2018