The Growing Numbers - What Is Alzheimers Disease: Alzheimers

Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School

The growing numbers

Alzheimer's disease is most common among people ages 65 and older, and the risk rises steadily with age. In the United States, Alzheimer's affects 40% of the population age 85 and older.

Of course, Alzheimer's affects a far greater number of people, for it takes a toll on loved ones as well as those with the disease. With the graying of America, Alzheimer's disease is a growing national problem. Today, an estimated 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer's. If no effective treatment or means of prevention is found, an estimated 13 million Americans may have Alzheimer's disease by 2050 — three times the figure today.

Most people with Alzheimer's disease are cared for at home by spouses or other family members, often for 10 years or longer. In many cases, this results in financial as well as emotional strain. For a person with Alzheimer's disease, the annual cost of home care is estimated at $76,000, including medical expenses and indirect costs such as a caregiver's time and lost wages. The resulting social burden is high. The estimated yearly cost to society for Alzheimer's disease is about $100 billion, which includes both direct and indirect costs.

Last updated:	January 23, 2007