Introduction to Dementia

Dementia is not a specific disease but rather a syndrome characterized by a decline in cognitive function beyond what might be expected from normal aging. This decline is severe enough to interfere with daily life and independent function. Dementia affects memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language, and judgment. Consciousness is not affected, but the impairment in cognitive function is commonly accompanied by changes in emotional control, social behavior, or motivation (Livingston et al. 413).

The global impact of dementia is substantial and growing. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia, with nearly 10 million new cases diagnosed each year. In the United States alone, approximately 6.7 million people aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia in 2023, representing about 1 in 9 older Americans (Alzheimer’s Association 345). As the population ages, these numbers are projected to rise dramatically, with estimates suggesting that by 2050, nearly 13 million Americans will be living with Alzheimer’s dementia, barring medical breakthroughs to prevent, slow, or cure the disease (continued below……).

Economic and Societal Impact

The economic burden of dementia is substantial. In 2023, the total cost of caring for Americans aged 65 and older with Alzheimer’s and other dementias is projected to reach $345 billion, excluding unpaid caregiving. Medicare and Medicaid are expected to cover approximately $222 billion, or 64%, of the total health care and long-term care payments for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias (Alzheimer’s Association 347).

Beyond the financial costs, the human toll is immeasurable. Family members and friends provided an estimated 18 billion hours of unpaid care to people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in 2022, a contribution valued at nearly $339.5 billion (Alzheimer’s Association 348).