The cost of dementia in the United States in 2026
Johanna Thunell, Bryan Tysinger, Matthew Baumgart, Maria Carrillo, Eileen Crimmins, Dana Goldman, Hanke Heun‐Johnson, Mireille Jacobson, Geoff Joyce, Duncan Leaf, Lycia Tramujas Vasconcellos Neumann, Julie ZissimopoulosAbstract
INTRODUCTION
Comprehensive cost measurement is essential for an effective policy response to societal dementia costs.
METHODS
Using dynamic microsimulation, the Health and Retirement Study, and other national data, we quantified the 2026 cost of dementia in the United States.
RESULTS
In 2026, 5.7 million (95% confidence interval [CI] [5.6, 6.0]) US adults aged 51 and older are living with dementia, supported by 5.2 million (95% CI [4.9, 5.5]) care partners. Total costs are $818 billion (B, 95% CI [759, 866]), driven by quality‐of‐life losses for persons with dementia ($320B, 95% CI [269, 363]) and care partners ($15B 95% CI [6, 25]). Unpaid care ($237B, 95% CI [220, 253]), earnings losses ($23B), and out‐of‐pocket costs combined with quality‐of‐life losses account for 80% of costs and are borne by families. Governments cover 70% of healthcare costs ($222B, 95% CI [209, 237]).
DISCUSSION
The costs of dementia fall on families, highlighting limited policy and work supports. Treatment innovation may increase medical costs but reduce caregiver burden and improve quality of life.
Highlights
The costs of dementia in the United States in 2026 are $818 billion. Quality‐of‐life losses are the largest driver of dementia's total burden. Individuals and families bear over three times the cost versus health systems. Methods enable analysis of treatment, care, and policy innovations on future costs.