A newly released report from the Alzheimer’s Association reveals that the majority of Americans want to know if they have Alzheimer’s disease early—even before symptoms appear—and are open to riskier treatments if it means slowing the disease’s progression.
According to the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, more than 7.2 million Americans aged 65 and older are now living with the disease. Among those surveyed, 79% said they would want to know their diagnosis early, and 92% said they would be likely to take a medication that could slow the disease, even if it involved some level of risk.Nevada-specific data shows the disease’s growing impact in the state. Nearly 55,000 Nevadans aged 65 and older are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and 87,000 residents serve as unpaid caregivers, providing care valued at over $3.1 billion annually.
Obviously, the impact of Alzheimer’s on Nevada families is significant. The report highlights the urgent need for better treatments and accessible early diagnosis.
Nationally, costs related to Alzheimer’s and other dementias are projected to reach $384 billion this year—excluding the estimated $413 billion worth of unpaid caregiving provided by nearly 12 million Americans.
A special section of the report, American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment, underscores strong public support for accessible testing and optimism about future treatments. Four out of five Americans believe new therapies will soon slow or stop the disease entirely.
However, concerns remain. Americans worry about insurance coverage, the accuracy and cost of tests, and the possible stigma of early diagnosis.
Despite these concerns, the findings suggest Americans are ready to be proactive in managing cognitive health. Simply stated, “Early diagnosis offers the best chance for managing and treating Alzheimer’s. People want to know, and they want options.
The full report is available at alz.org/facts.
