What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the most common cause of dementia. It gradually destroys brain cells, leading to memory loss, impaired thinking, and changes in behavior and personality.

• Named after Dr. Alois Alzheimer, who first described the condition in 1906.

• Affects over 6 million Americans, mostly aged 65 and older.

• Accounts for 60–80% of dementia cases globally.  

Definition

• Alzheimer’s Disease Age-Adjusted Deaths per 100,000 refers to the number of deaths attributed to Alzheimer’s disease per 100,000 people, adjusted for age to account for differences in age distribution across populations.

• Age-adjustment uses a standard population (typically the 2000 U.S. standard population) to allow fair comparisons over time and between regions.

Why It’s Important

• This KPI reflects the burden of Alzheimer’s disease on public health.

• It helps track trends in mortality, assess the effectiveness of interventions, and guide policy and resource allocation.

Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S., and its impact is growing due to aging populations.                                                                                 

Who Is Mostly Affected?

• Older Adults (65+): Nearly all Alzheimer’s deaths occur in this age group.

• Women: Have consistently higher age-adjusted death rates than men. In 2019, the rate was 263.0 for women vs. 186.3 for men.

• Racial/Ethnic Disparities: Black and Hispanic populations are disproportionately affected due to higher prevalence and barriers to care.

• Caregivers: Family members and unpaid caregivers face emotional, physical, and financial strain.

What Works: Keeping the Measure on Track

Prevention & Early Detection

• Managing risk factors: Cardiovascular health, diabetes, smoking cessation, and physical activity reduce risk.

• Cognitive screening: Early diagnosis allows for better planning and care.

Quality Care & Support

• Dementia care navigation: Helps families access services, plan care, and reduce crisis situations.

• Community-based programs: Support groups, respite care, and education improve outcomes.

Public Health Initiatives

• Awareness campaigns: Reduce stigma and promote early intervention.

• Training for healthcare providers: Improves diagnosis and management.

Research & Innovation

• Investment in biomedical research for treatments and potential cures.

• Use of data systems to monitor trends and evaluate interventions.

Systemic Barriers

• Underdiagnosis: Many cases go undetected until late stages.

• Access to care: Rural and underserved communities face shortages in dementia care specialists.

Caregiver Burden

• High levels of stress, depression, and financial strain among caregivers.

• Limited availability of affordable long-term care options.

Rising Prevalence

• As the population ages, the number of people with Alzheimer’s is projected to increase dramatically, straining healthcare systems.

Data Limitations

• Variability in death certificate accuracy and reporting practices.

• Challenges in tracking comorbidities and differentiating Alzheimer’s from other dementias.

https://www.usnews.com/news/healthiest-communities/slideshows/alzheimers-death-rates-are-highest-in-these-10-states Last accessed July 2025

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