An estimated 7.2 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia in 2025, according to a new report released by the Alzheimer’s Association. The report underscores not only the growing prevalence of the disease but also a strong public demand for early diagnosis and better access to emerging treatments.

The report presents a comprehensive analysis of the disease's impact, including prevalence, mortality, caregiving burdens, and the cost of care. It also explores public attitudes toward the detection and treatment of Alzheimer’s. One of the key findings is that nearly all adults surveyed—99 percent—believe it is important to diagnose Alzheimer’s in its early stages.

As scientific advancements bring new possibilities, early detection is becoming more than just a strategy for managing symptoms—it is now seen as a gateway to meaningful treatment. Individuals diagnosed at earlier stages, such as those with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia, are eligible for recently approved anti-amyloid medications like donanemab and lecanemab, which have shown promise in slowing disease progression.

The report also highlights that a majority of Americans are eager to know if they have Alzheimer’s before it significantly disrupts their daily lives. A large portion of respondents expressed interest in undergoing simple medical tests to detect the disease, even before symptoms appear. Many also view cognitive screening as an essential part of preventive healthcare.

Dr. Elizabeth Edgerly, senior director of Community Programs and Services at the Alzheimer’s Association, emphasized this growing public interest. “Our survey finds that people want to know if they have Alzheimer’s, and they want to know before it impacts their daily life,” she said.

With the number of older adults in the U.S. on the rise, the burden of Alzheimer’s is expected to grow unless proactive steps are taken. The Alzheimer’s Association is calling for broader access to testing, improved public education, and healthcare policies that prioritize early intervention, as the window for effective treatment often lies in the earliest stages of the disease.

The findings reflect a shifting mindset among the public: as new treatments become available, people are more inclined to seek diagnosis sooner rather than later, paving the way for better care, planning, and quality of life.