Alzheimer's places a huge burden on the health care system, with annual costs of $360 billion in 2024. People living with dementia are hospitalized more often, have multiple complicating chronic conditions, and represent a large share of costly residential care.

Quality dementia care requires a person-centered focus. Person-centered care is built around the needs of the person living with dementia, and requires that the health care team understand the unique needs and desires of that individual. To help better define quality care across care settings and throughout the disease course, the Alzheimer's Association drafted the Dementia Care Practice Recommendations in 2018. They were based on a comprehensive review of current evidence, best practice, and expert opinion. 

What public health can do

Educate health care professionals: Quality care is influenced by numerous aspects of the health care system, including access to care, well-trained providers, and safe and reliable care settings. Public health can use its broad authority to ensure people with dementia and their caregivers receive quality care across each of these aspects. State, local, and tribal public health agencies can promote early detection and diagnosis and educate and train professionals to help meet these needs.

Educate policymakers: Public health officials can educate policymakers and other government officials about evidence-informed standards that best ensure quality of care for people with dementia.