ABSTRACT
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRDs) are associated with cognitive decline significant enough to interfere with an individual's ability to live independently. ADRDs affect the health and quality of life of over 6 million older adults in the United States. Additionally, ADRDs lead to considerable financial and emotional burden for persons living with dementia and their care partners. Moreover, social inequities in access and care contribute to notable health disparities in ADRD prevalence. This chapter describes the epidemiology of ADRDs and current trends, as well as their etiology and course across the clinical continuum. Information related to identification and diagnosis is also described. Details are provided regarding risk for ADRD, including modifiable factors that may help mitigate risk. Suggestions for what individuals can do to help slow disease progression and improve quality of life are included. Lastly, steps for disease management and planning across the stages of ADRD are provided.
