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USC Study: Dementia Costs U.S. $818 B by 2026

6/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

A USC-led study projects the 2026 economic burden of dementia in the United States at $818 billion.
The study estimates 5.7 million Americans will have dementia in 2026, including 5.1 million aged 65 and older.
Reduced quality of life is expected to account for $320 billion, the largest component of the cost.
Unpaid caregivers will supply 6.8 billion hours valued at $237 billion, while medical and long-term care expenses total $222 billion, with Medicare and Medicaid covering $154 billion.

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Story summary

A USC-led study projects the 2026 economic burden of dementia in the United States at $818 billion.
The study estimates 5.7 million Americans will have dementia in 2026, including 5.1 million aged 65 and older.
Reduced quality of life is expected to account for $320 billion, the largest component of the cost.
Unpaid caregivers will supply 6.8 billion hours valued at $237 billion, while medical and long-term care expenses total $222 billion, with Medicare and Medicaid covering $154 billion.