New Alzheimer’s Association Report: Americans Want Early Diagnosis, Treatment, and Are Open to Risk-Taking to Slow Progression

As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease tops more than 7 million for the first time, a new report reveals strong public sentiment toward early diagnosis and treatment. Nearly 4 in 5 Americans would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s before it impacted their lives, and they are open to treatments, even with risks, to slow the disease's progression. These are among the insights uncovered in the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures Report released today by the Alzheimer’s Association. The 2025 Facts and Figures report provides an in-depth look at the latest national and state-by-state statistics on Alzheimer’s prevalence, mortality, dementia care workforce, costs of care, and impact on caregivers. New disease-related statistics for Wisconsin revealed the following: 

• Number of Wisconsin residents aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s: 110,900 
• Statewide deaths from Alzheimer’s disease: 2,361 
• Statewide mortality rate from Alzheimer’s (per 100,000 people): 7th 
• Number of Wisconsin residents serving as unpaid family caregivers: 205,000 
• Total hours of unpaid care provided: 297M 
• Total value of unpaid care: $6.0B

 “This year’s report emphasizes both the national demand for early diagnosis and effective treatments, and the significant impact Alzheimer’s has on Wisconsin residents and families," said Dave Grams, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Chapter. "It’s crucial that we advance research and ensure access to care and support for those affected in our state.”

Key National Findings:

• 7.2 million people aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease. 
• The total annual cost of caring for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias (excluding unpaid care) is projected to be $384 billion in 2025. 
• Nearly 12 million family members and friends provide 19.2 billion hours of unpaid care, valued at an additional $413 billion.
• Deaths due to Alzheimer’s disease more than doubled between 2000 and 2022. 

Special Report: American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment The accompanying special report highlights a national survey of more than 1,700 U.S. adults, aged 45 and older, examining awareness and attitudes toward early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, tests used to help diagnose Alzheimer’s, and treatments that can slow the progression of the disease.

Key survey findings:

• Nearly 4 in 5 Americans (79%) would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s before symptoms interfere with daily activities.
• More than 9 in 10 Americans would want a simple test if available, primarily for earlier treatment and care.
• Over 90% would want medication to slow progression if diagnosed.
• Nearly 60% would accept a moderate or high level of risk with treatment.
• Top concerns about testing: insurance coverage, accuracy, and cost.
• 81% believe new treatments to stop progression will emerge in the next decade, and 66% believe new treatments to prevent Alzheimer’s will be available soon. 

“The national survey highlights the need for advancing new treatments and making early diagnosis easier and more accessible,” said Dave Grams, Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Chapter. “We must continue to support research and improve access to care and support right here in Wisconsin, ensuring that individuals and families have the resources they need.”

Full text of the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, including the accompanying special report, American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment, can be viewed at alz.org/facts.