(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The state’s population of people with Alzheimer’s disease is expected to increase by 13% over the next few years, according to a new report that outlines the challenges Illinoisans face.
The number of Illinois residents 65 and older with Alzheimer’s is expected to increase from 230,000 currently to 260,000 by 2025, the Alzheimer’s Association says.
“We’re already experiencing the tip of the iceberg right now,” said Delia Jervier, executive director of the Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. “This is going to continue to become an important issue for all of us.”
She said the cost of taking care of Alzheimer’s patients in the United States will increase from $318 billion currently to $1 trillion by 2050 as the population ages.
The Alzheimer's Association said there are 383,000 Illinois residents serving as unpaid family caregivers for those suffering dementia. The value of the unpaid care they give is estimated at $8.8 billion.
The Alzheimer’s Association advocates for providing support services and research.
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