This podcast episode examines the economic implications of dementia, a neurological disorder characterized by cognitive decline and memory loss. The rising number of dementia cases has led to skyrocketing healthcare costs, surpassing those of cancer and heart disease combined, amounting to $300 billion per year. By 2050, it is predicted that these costs will reach $1.5 trillion. This financial burden not only impacts families but also the labor force, as individuals with dementia often stop working and family members quit their jobs to provide care. This leads to a shrinking labor force and potential challenges for economic growth. Despite previous policy attempts, no effective solutions have been implemented, and families face a lack of affordable long-term care options, jeopardizing their savings and employment. Thus, the focus has shifted to finding medical solutions and delaying the onset of dementia. Researchers are exploring interventions to delay disease progression, which would significantly reduce costs and improve the economic outlook.
