The cost of dementia in the United States in 2026.

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.