By 2050, the number of Americans 65 and older living with Alzheimer's dementia may nearly triple from 5.3 million to a projected 13.8 million, barring the development of medical breakthroughs to prevent or cure Alzheimer's. However, despite the steadily growing prevalence of Alzheimer's, evidence indicates that only about half of those with Alzheimer's have been diagnosed. And of those who are diagnosed, most with Alzheimer's are not even aware of their diagnosis.

An updated policy brief on Early Detection and Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Dementia released by the Alzheimer's Association and the Alzheimer's Impact Movement, explains the importance of disclosing a diagnosis of Alzheimer's as well as the benefits and barriers to early detection and diagnosis. The brief also outlines several public policies that can be used to promote early detection as well as examples of public health early detection strategies.

Early detection and diagnosis provides the best opportunity for individuals to benefit from available treatments, enroll in clinical trials, build a care team, and express their own wishes. Early detection also affords physicians the opportunity to better manage an individual's comorbid conditions and avoid prescribing medications that may worsen cognition.

Yet, barriers still exist that discourage early detection and diagnosis. For people living with Alzheimer's, these may include emotional distress and misperceptions about Alzheimer's and other dementias. Physicians face barriers such as a lack of education or training on dementia care, a lack of time and difficulty talking about dementia. Each of these factors can contribute to undisclosed diagnoses.

What can be done to aid early detection and diagnosis efforts? There are several public policies, in addition to others discussed in the policy brief, that can be used to increase promote early detection and diagnosis. Raising public awareness about the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias is critical to advancing early detection efforts. Also, promoting the use of the Medicare Annual Wellness visit provides physicians with the opportunity to discuss healthy aging with individuals, regardless of their health status. Additionally, educating health care providers on early detection and diagnosis and the importance of disclosing and documenting an Alzheimer's dementia diagnosis increases the ability of physicians to recognize the early warning signs and provide appropriate care for individuals with the disease.

For more information about the benefits of early detection and how public policies can support early detection and diagnosis efforts, read our full policy brief.