Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, affects an estimated 7.2 million Americans aged 65 and older in 2025. That’s about 11% of everyone in this age group, according to a new report by the Alzheimer’s Association.
With the numbers rising and new treatment options becoming available, early diagnosis has become more important than ever.
The report outlines key facts about Alzheimer’s disease, including how common it is, the burden it places on families and caregivers, and the growing cost of care. But one of the most striking findings comes from a national survey showing how strongly Americans feel about detecting the disease early.
Almost everyone surveyed—99%—believes that diagnosing Alzheimer’s in its early stages is important. Early diagnosis can open the door to treatments that may slow the disease’s progress, especially new anti-amyloid drugs like donanemab and lecanemab.
These treatments are only approved for people in the early stages of the disease, such as those with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage dementia. Catching the disease early also allows families to plan ahead and make lifestyle changes that might improve quality of life.
The survey also shows that people want to take action even before symptoms appear. Seventy-nine percent of Americans said they would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s before noticeable symptoms developed or before those symptoms disrupted daily life.
Most people are open to testing. More than 90% said they would definitely or probably take a simple medical test to detect the disease. Specifically, 91% would take such a test before symptoms began, and 95% would do so if they had early signs. In fact, 83% said they would take a test simply to allow for earlier treatment and planning.
Nearly 60% of respondents also said they view cognitive screening—tests that evaluate memory and thinking—as an important part of regular health checkups, similar to getting a cholesterol test or a mammogram.
Dr. Elizabeth Edgerly, senior director of Community Programs and Services at the Alzheimer’s Association, said the message is clear: “Our survey finds that people want to know if they have Alzheimer’s disease and they want to know before it impacts their daily life.”
The results of the survey reflect a growing awareness that Alzheimer’s is not just a problem for the distant future—it’s something people want to face head-on, with knowledge and preparation. With new treatments on the horizon and more testing options becoming available, early diagnosis could become a key part of routine health care for older adults.
In summary, the report shows strong public interest in early detection of Alzheimer’s, driven by the hope for better treatment, care planning, and quality of life. As science continues to advance, early diagnosis may become the cornerstone of how we fight this growing disease.
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