CHICAGO – As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease tops more than 7 million for the first time, nearly 4 in 5 Americans would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s disease before it impacted their lives. They also want treatment, even if it comes with risks, as long as it slows the progression of the disease. These are among the insights uncovered in the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report released by the Alzheimer’s Association.
The new survey findings are included in an accompanying special report, American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment. The nationwide survey of more than 1,700 Americans aged 45 and older examined awareness and attitudes about Alzheimer’s disease, early detection and diagnosis, tests used to help diagnose Alzheimer’s, and treatments that can slow progression of the disease.
“Our survey finds that people want to know if they have Alzheimer’s, and they want to know before it impacts their daily life. They want a simple test so they can access care earlier, including treatments that can slow the progression of the disease,” said Elizabeth Edgerly, Ph.D., senior director, Community Programs and Services, Alzheimer’s Association. “Their interest in early diagnosis and treatment highlights how important it is that we keep advancing toward diagnostic testing that is simple to administer and widely available. We also heard loud and clear that Americans want disease-modifying treatments that can make a real difference after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.”
Survey Highlights
Americans want to know if they have Alzheimer’s disease and want early access to testing.
• 79% would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s disease before having symptoms, or before symptoms interfere with daily activities.
• 91% said they would want to take a simple test — such as a blood biomarker test — if it were available, although very few are familiar with these tests. Access to early treatment and care is the main reason cited for wanting a simple test.
• 80% said they would ask to be tested rather than wait for their doctor to suggest testing.
Americans want medication to slow the progression of the disease and would accept some risk.
• 92% would probably or definitely want to take a medication that could slow the progression of the disease following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
• 58% said they would accept moderate to very high levels of risk with taking medication to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in the early stages.
“As someone who has benefitted from early diagnosis and treatment, I encourage others who are worried about their cognition to be proactive in addressing their concerns,” said Darlene Bradley, a member of the Alzheimer’s Association Early-Stage Advisory Group. “The survey underscores what many of us living with Alzheimer’s believe — we want every opportunity to fight this disease and live the best life we can for as long as we can. I am living proof that there is life after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.”
Additionally, the Alzheimer’s Association 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report found that the prevalence and cost of Alzheimer’s disease are rising. Among the findings:
• 7.2 million people aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Total annual costs of caring for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias (excluding unpaid care) is projected to be $384 billion in 2025.
• Additionally, 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.
