Did you know that dementia is not a single disease but a collection of symptoms, such as memory loss, difficulty resolving problems, and impaired reasoning?
Dr. Michael Weiner, a leading expert on Alzheimer's disease, says: "Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. It’s a gradual disease that slowly takes away memory and thinking skills, eventually stripping people of their independence and sense of self."
These diseases greatly affect the livelihoods of many people, so much so that by 2050, the number of people with dementia is projected to triple, reaching over 139 million worldwide.
These symptoms occur when brain cells are damaged and can no longer communicate effectively, impacting thinking, behavior, and emotions.
In this article, we’ve sourced the most important and intriguing statistics on Dementia and Alzheimer's to provide a heightened understanding of how these diseases impact people.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s by Demographics
It’s often thought that dementia and Alzheimer’s disease only affect elderly people. However, with extensive research on the subject, we can see that this isn’t the case. In fact, during our lifetime, half of us will experience the effects of dementia.6
While the majority are aged over 65, early-onset Alzheimer’s has been observed in younger adults in their 30’s, 40's, and 50’s.
According to Dr. Helena Chang Chui, chair of Neurology at Keck Medicine of USC,
“Most people who develop the disease do so after age 65. However, early onset Alzheimer’s occurs in 5% of people who have the disease, and it can appear as early as age 30.”
Here’s a complete list of statistics related to dementia and Alzheimer’s based on demographics.
- The number of individuals globally experiencing dementia is surpassing 55 million. 2
- An estimation has projected that by 2050, this figure will surge to about 139 million individuals diagnosed with dementia, with low and middle-income countries expected to encounter the most substantial increments.2
- At present, low and middle-income countries are home to 60% of individuals with dementia. This percentage is anticipated to rise to 71% by 2050.2
- Dementia is diagnosed once every 3 seconds in some parts of the world.2
- Approximately 75% of people with dementia across the globe remain undiagnosed.2
Paola Barbarino, CEO of Alzheimer’s Disease International, further emphasizes, “Healthcare systems' lack of awareness and the stigma around dementia are making it hard to support those living with it. Misunderstandings, insufficiently trained specialists, and limited access to diagnostic tools have led to shockingly low diagnosis rates.”
- Approximately 80% of the population feels concerned about developing dementia at some point in their lives, and one out of four individuals holds on to the belief that there are no preventive measures available.2
- 62% of healthcare professionals worldwide hold the inaccurate notion that dementia is a natural aspect typically associated with aging.2
| Age | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Age 30-44 | 0.6% |
| Age 45-54 | 2.0% |
| Age 55-64 | 7.0% |
- By the end of 2024, the number of individuals diagnosed with all types of dementia in Australia is expected to surpass 421,000. Furthermore, this value is predicted to surge to over 812,500 by 2054.5
- By the end of 2024, it is projected that almost 29,000 individuals will be residing with younger onset dementia in Australia. This number is expected to surge beyond 41,000 by 2054.5
“Diagnosing younger onset dementia, which affects people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, is tough because symptoms can vary a lot, and there's not much awareness about it among the public and healthcare providers.”
Dr. McCabe’s findings indicate an urgent need for early detection tools, increased awareness, and better support systems to manage the growing demand for dementia care in younger populations.
- Moderate to severe cognitive impairment (such as forgetting simple conversations to severe personality changes) is present in over two-thirds (68.1%) of aged care residents.5
- It is believed that two out of every three individuals with dementia reside in the Australian community.5
- The estimated number of individuals living with dementia in the U.K. is 944,000 people.6
- Women account for 65% of the U.K.'s 944,000 population living with dementia.6
- In the U.K., dementia affects 1 out of every 14 individuals who are over the age of 65.6
According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, participation in a dementia clinical trial is currently limited to only 1% of the eligible population. Recruiting sufficient participants for such trials can take up to three years, while equivalent efforts in cancer research yield completed results within just 2.3 years. The question is, why is that the case?
Despite the absence of a treatment that modifies all causes of dementia, only 2% of England's diagnosed population with this condition are enrolled in Join Dementia Research. This organization connects individuals to research on dementia in the U.K.
- Young onset dementia is estimated to affect 70,800 individuals in the U.K.7
- The estimated number of people living with dementia in Northern Ireland is 13,625.6
- Among U.S. adults, Alzheimer's disease ranks as the sixth major cause of death.13
- It is estimated that by 2060, the number of people suffering from Alzheimer's disease will increase to approximately 14 million individuals, with minority groups being disproportionately impacted.16
- Today's estimates for Hispanic cases will be multiplied by seven in the future.16
- Estimates for cases among African Americans will be four times higher than those projected today.16
The impact of dementia and Alzheimer's disease is significant for both individuals and society. This is expected to almost triple by 2050 due to aging populations, affecting millions of people globally. Efficient management strategies require early diagnosis, risk factor control, and robust support systems for caregivers worldwide.
Dr Emma Nichols, a researcher from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, says, "Our study offers improved forecasts for dementia on a global scale... These estimates can be used by national governments to ensure resources and support are available for individuals, caregivers, and health systems globally."
With the ongoing increase of individuals at risk for developing dementia or Alzheimer’s, it’s important to understand how they can best be supported by caregivers (friends or family) and the health system.
Types of Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease Statistics
According to Alzheimer's Research UK's most recent findings, addressing specific risk factors in our daily routines could prevent or delay as many as 40% of dementia cases worldwide.
These statistics share an overview of the types of dementia people face globally.
- Out of every 100 individuals with dementia, approximately 20 are estimated to have vascular dementia, which ranks as the second most frequent form of this condition.8
It’s intriguing to observe the correlation between dementia and other cardiovascular diseases. In a podcast with Dr. William Li, an expert in cardiovascular and metabolic health, he explained, “and so vascular dementia is the most common cause of dementia. To clarify, vascular dementia is the brain part of narrowing of the arteries that can occur in other parts of your body, including your heart.”
He continued that,
“the harmful ApoB or LDL (Low-density lipoprotein - harmful ApoB) starts to clog up the blood vessels because the lining isn't smooth anymore. It's not going to glide by. It's going to stick to the side, and a little more sticks, a little more sticks, it's going to get narrow. Oh, what happens when you have narrow blood vessels? You're not delivering the blood flow. And when that happens to the brain, vascular dementia.”
- The third most common cause of dementia is linked to various diseases, including dementia with Lewy bodies.9
- Approximately 10-15 out of every 100 individuals with dementia are affected by Lewy body dementia, indicating a total count of approximately 100,000 U.K. residents living with this form of cognitive impairment.9
- Parkinson's disease (PD - a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement) is closely linked with dementia with Lewy bodies. The accumulation of Lewy bodies - seen in Parkinson's as well - triggers symptoms such as tremors and issues related to movement.9
- About 24% to 50% of individuals with PD have dementia, which constitutes roughly 3% to 4% of the total population's cases.10
- Typically, movement symptoms of PD emerge in individuals aged between 50 and 85 years old; however, certain people may exhibit indications at a younger age.11
- Eventually, dementia develops in up to 80% of individuals with PD.11
- It takes approximately 10 years from the initiation of motor symptoms to manifest dementia on average.11
- Studies indicate that the longevity of an individual living with Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) typically ranges from five to seven years, yet this may differ depending on each person's circumstances.11
Due to similar symptoms, it is often challenging to clinically distinguish between Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and Alzheimer's Disease. However, utilizing Fractional Anisotropy (FA) measurements from Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) can aid in distinguishing the distinct degradation of white matter patterns associated with each dementia type.
- Education and cognitive stimulation play a crucial role in dementia prevention. By attaining higher education levels and engaging in cognitive activities throughout one's lifetime, up to 7% of dementia cases could be prevented.12
- Addressing hearing loss during mid-life (45-65) can prevent or delay approximately 8% of all dementia cases.12
- Smoking could be attributed to 5% of dementia cases.12
- Potentially, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can be attributed to 3% of all cases of dementia.12
Repeated head injuries, especially in athletes and military personnel, increase the risk of FTD by causing cumulative brain damage. Additionally, genetic factors might make some people more vulnerable to developing FTD after experiencing TBI.17
- Approximately 60% of individuals diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) fall within the age range of 45 to 60.17
- In a comprehensive analysis, FTD represents roughly 3% of dementia cases among studies involving people aged over 65 and approximately 10% in investigations conducted exclusively on those younger than that age group.17
A single autopsy study revealed that out of 447 elderly individuals who were thought to have Alzheimer's disease at the time of death, only 3% displayed the brain alterations characteristic of Alzheimer’s. Conversely, approximately 15% exhibited signs consistent with different types of dementia. In comparison, a staggering majority- roughly 82%- showed evidence pointing towards both Alzheimer's and another type of dementia simultaneously (also known as Mixed Dementia).17
Addressing these factors has the potential to prevent or postpone dementia. This not only benefits individual health but is also significant for public health. With a growing elderly population, lowering the incidence rates of dementia can ease the economic and societal strain of long-term care for patients with this condition.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Mortality Statistics
The prevalence of dementia and Alzheimer's disease presents notable obstacles in the public healthcare sector. The occurrence rate of these conditions results in higher mortality rates.
Therefore, physicians must lead this charge by creating intricate diagnostic protocols, pioneering innovative therapeutic techniques, and ensuring that all-encompassing care plans are readily available.
- Globally, dementia is the seventh most prevalent cause of death.4
- Dementia affects women more severely than men. 4
This is interesting, considering we don't know why, but estrogen is believed to play a protective role in brain health. After menopause, women experience a significant drop in estrogen levels, which may contribute to an increased risk of dementia.
- Women have higher rates of disability and death from dementia. Additionally, women provide 70% of the care for people with dementia.4
According to an article in The BMJ, this is likely due to biological, social, and cultural factors. Women generally live longer than men, increasing their chances of developing dementia. Socially, women are more often caregivers, so they take on the majority of caregiving responsibilities for those with dementia.
- According to provisional data, dementia is fast becoming the primary cause of death for all Australians after already claiming second place due to factors such as an aging population, increased awareness, and diagnosis; advances in healthcare have led to a decline in mortality, chronic health conditions, and lifestyle factors .5
- Dementia was the primary cause of mortality in the U.K. in 2022, resulting in over 74,000 fatalities (constituting 11.3% of all deaths). This marked a rise of an additional 5,000 individuals who succumbed to dementia as compared to the previous year.7
- From 2000 to 2019, fatality rates linked with stroke, heart disease, and HIV declined, while there was a surge of over 145% in reported fatalities due to Alzheimer's disease (AD). It is probable that the COVID-19 outbreak during the years 2020 and 2021 only aggravated this trend.15
In a TedTalk hosted by Alanna Shaikh, a global health consultant, she mentions how dementia took its toll on her father and their family. "I'm doing everything I can to prevent getting Alzheimer's. I'm eating right, exercising daily, and keeping my mind active. That's what the research says I should do. But the research also shows that nothing will 100% protect you. If the monster is in you, the monster can get you. That's what happened with my dad. My dad was a Bilingual College Professor."
What is the likelihood of inheriting dementia?
- Sporadic Alzheimer's, which accounts for roughly 95 to 99% of cases, typically arises from a multifactorial combination of genetic variations, environmental factors, and lifestyle. Advancing age is the most influential risk factor in sporadic Alzheimer's onset. Although not direct causes themselves, certain susceptibility genes such as ApoE4 can elevate one's future likelihood of developing this condition.19
- There are three common variants of the ApoE gene: ApoE2, ApoE3, and ApoE4. The E4 variant raises the chances of developing Alzheimer's disease, but its absence does not prevent one from acquiring it. Notably, many individuals carrying the E4 variant do not develop Alzheimer's, even in old age.19
- Familial Alzheimer's Disease (FAD), which comprises 5% of all cases, is characterized by a genetic predisposition. The three genes associated with FAD are APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2—the "Alzheimer's genes." If one parent carries a mutated form of any of these genes, their children have an even chance (50%) to inherit it. Individuals carrying the inherited mutation will develop FAD themselves, typically before age 65.19
- There is a genetic component to Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), with approximately 10% of cases categorized as hereditary familial forms.19
Dr. Howard Rosen, a neurologist at the UCSF Memory and Aging Center, states, “About 10-20% of all FTD cases are considered genetic, caused by a single gene mutation inherited in a dominant pattern.” If a parent has the mutation, there is a 50% chance their child will inherit the condition.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Market Statistics
The dementia and Alzheimer’s market is anticipated to grow to $13 billion, up from $7.5 billion in 2019, thanks to improvements in diagnostic technologies, innovative therapies, and an ascending cognizance and diagnosis rate for Alzheimer's disease worldwide.
The following statistics showcase the growth and expansion of this market, as well as areas for improvement in clinical trials, treatment options, and specialist care for people with the disease.
- In 2015, dementia expenses totaled $818 billion, comprising a 1.09% share of the worldwide GDP. 3
- Currently, there has been an upsurge, with annual costs exceeding $1.3 trillion, and they are projected to rise even further, reaching $2.8 trillion by the year 2030.3
- The projected expenses for dementia in the U.K. amounted to £25 billion in 2021. 11
- It is projected to rise to nearly £47 billion by 2050.11
- In 2018, the cost of dementia worldwide was approximated at $1.3 trillion and is expected to increase significantly in coming years due to an estimated triple growth in individuals afflicted with this condition by 2050.11
- Dementia expenses are forecasted to increase significantly by 2050, with costs rising from £25 billion in 2021 to approximately £47 billion.11
- The total cost of informal care for dementia in the U.K. amounts to £10.2 billion.11
- In 2010, it was estimated that the expenses for managing Alzheimer's disease would range from $159 to $215 billion. However, by 2040, these costs are predicted to soar and fall between an annual figure of $379 and over $500 billion.13
- Medicare and Medicaid are anticipated to cover $231 billion (64%) of the expenses, while $91 billion will likely come from out-of-pocket spending.14
- It is expected that by 2050, the combined expenditure on health care, long-term care, and hospice services for individuals living with dementia will reach a staggering $1 trillion.14
- It was projected that the combined cost of healthcare, long-term care, and hospice services for individuals aged 65 years or older with dementia amounted to $345 billion by the end of 2023.15
“The escalating costs associated with dementia care reflect the enormous burden this disease places on healthcare systems, families, and society as a whole.”
She added that, "As we approach a projected $345 billion in combined care costs by the end of 2023, it's clear that urgent action is needed to develop effective treatments and support systems for those affected by dementia."
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Caregiver Statistics
In the U.S., there is a severe shortage of caregivers. The need for home health aides and personal care aides is expected to grow by 34% between 2019 and 2029, making it one of the fastest-growing professions.
This rapid growth is largely propelled by an aging population and heightened healthcare capabilities, causing longer lifespans that generally support long-term patient continuing attention needs, particularly those privately owned chronic medical illnesses.
- Globally, 35% of caregivers have kept the diagnosis of dementia for a family member concealed.2
- More than half of caregivers worldwide indicate a decline in their health resulting from their duties, even though they express satisfaction with their role.2
- Approximately 20% of the total expenses related to dementia are attributed to direct medical care costs, and approximately 40% is accounted for by both direct social sector costs and informal caregiving expenses.3
- Over 1.6 million individuals in Australia are involved in the care of someone living with dementia.5
- People providing unpaid care for those living with dementia spend 1.1 billion hours each year on this task.11
- According to a survey, 55% of primary care physicians (PCPs) who attend to individuals with Alzheimer's disease note that there is an insufficient number of dementia specialists available in their localities.14
- Direct care workers have high turnover rates, with home care providers estimated at 77% annually and nursing assistants in nursing homes at a staggering 99%.14
- To effectively care for the projected number of people with Alzheimer's in 2050, the U.S. will need to increase its count of geriatricians (doctors who specialize in the care of older adults) by almost three times.14
- 70% of dementia caregivers express stress due to coordinating care.14
- Having access to a care navigator would influence the choice of dementia healthcare provider for the person they take care of, according to 85% of dementia caregivers.14
In fact, Dr. Sam Fazio, Director of Quality Care and Psychosocial Research at the Alzheimer’s Association, emphasizes the holistic approach of dementia care navigation: "Dementia care navigators play a critical role in delivering comprehensive care that addresses the medical, legal, financial, and emotional needs of individuals with dementia and their caregivers. They facilitate coordination and engagement across all facets of care to overcome the barriers faced by this population."
- 61% of dementia caregivers think that a care navigator (also known as a patient navigator, is a professional who helps patients and their families navigate the complex healthcare system) would enhance the quality of life for their recipients. 43% also believe that it can lead to overall improvement in health conditions.14
- 62% of dementia caregivers believe a care navigator would help them achieve less stress and more peace of mind.14
- 56% of caregivers believe that having a care navigator would improve their caregiving abilities.14
- Individuals with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia experience twice the number of hospital visits annually compared to elderly individuals.14
- Out of ten caregivers who provided care for individuals with Alzheimer's or other types of dementia, six had employment recently or in the past year. They worked an average of 35 hours per week while taking on caregiving responsibilities.17
- Of those who provided care for someone with Alzheimer's or another dementia while working in the last year, 57% acknowledged requiring occasional late arrival or early departure from work as opposed to 47% of non-dementia caregivers.17
- Those caring for individuals with dementia had a higher percentage of reduced work hours due to caregiving responsibilities (18%) in comparison to non-dementia caregivers (13%).17
- Each year, Medicare beneficiaries with Alzheimer's or other dementias experience an average of 1,545 emergency department visits per 1,000 individuals. This count covers all emergency room visits that lead to hospital admissions.17
- Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia have 2.7 times higher prevalence rates of four or more chronic conditions (excluding the specific diagnosis) than those without any form of dementia, on average.17
| Concerns | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| The Patient | 50% |
| Lack of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Knowledge | 8% |
| Lack of Medical Expertise | 10.5% |
Ultimately, caregivers are necessary, making the disease easier to bear with a familiar helping hand.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alzheimer's hereditary?
There seems to be an association between genetic factors and a heightened likelihood of developing late-onset Alzheimer's based on your genotype.
- APOE: Genotype Relative Risk Compared to APOE3/APOE3
- APOE2/APOE2: Very rare, possibly protective
- APOE2/APOE3: 0.6 times the risk (reduced risk)
- APOE2/APOE4: 2.6 times the risk (slightly increased risk)
- APOE3/APOE3: 1.0 times the risk
- APOE3/APOE4: two to three times the risk (increased risk)
- APOE4/APOE4: eight to 12 times the risk (significantly increased risk)19
Is there a cure for Alzheimer's and Dementia?
Dementia and Alzheimer's disease currently have no cure, and little to no scientific research supports claims that dietary supplements can prevent or treat the condition in humans. However, drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are available for treating people with Alzheimer's. At the same time, some specific medications and measures may help govern behavioral symptoms.18
How can you prevent Alzheimer's and Dementia?
At present, conclusive proof regarding methods to deter Alzheimer's disease or cognitive deterioration related to aging remains elusive. However, we acknowledge that a wholesome way of life encompassing sound eating habits, regular exercise routines, appropriate weight management, and blood pressure regulation can mitigate the chances of selected chronic ailments while enhancing general fitness and wellness.18
What are the early signs of Alzheimer's and Dementia disease?
Alzheimer's disease is typically characterized by memory problems as one of its initial symptoms, although different individuals may present with varied early warning signs. In addition to declining cognitive function in word retrieval, vision or spatial awareness difficulties and impaired judgment or reasoning ability can also indicate the beginning stages of Alzheimer's disease. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is another condition that could signal an early onset of this disorder; however, not everyone experiencing MCI will develop Alzheimer's. Patients who exhibit MCI can also display movement limitations and issues related to their sense of smell. To track any changes in thinking or memory functions for those diagnosed with MCI, they must seek regular consultations from a specialist physician according to doctors' recommendations.18
What causes Alzheimer's and Dementia?
The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease remains elusive to scientists, particularly concerning the majority of cases. Early-onset Alzheimer's that occurs between someone's 30s and mid-60s appears linked to genetics.
Meanwhile, late-onset typically develops in one’s mid-60s via complex brain changes occurring over several decades due to age-related alterations and influences from genetic composition, environmental factors, or lifestyle choices.
These triggers impact people differently, while sufferers carrying Down syndrome hold an increased probability of developing this condition given they have roughly a 50% rate of encountering it midway through their 40 years as symptoms manifest themselves.18
Sources
- Keck Medicine of USC
- Alzheimer’s Disease International
- Alzheimer’s Disease International
- WHO
- Dementia Australia
- Alzheimer’s Research UK
- Alzheimer’s Research UK
- Alzheimer’s Research UK
- Alzheimer’s Research UK
- The National Center for Bitechnology Information (NCBI)
- Dementia Statistics Hub
- Dementia Statistics Hub
- CDC
- Alzheimer’s Association
- The National Center for Bitechnology Information (NCBI)
- CDC
- Alzheimer’s Association
- Alzheimer’s Disease International
- Jama Network
