Cost Estimation Analysis of Dementia: A Scope Review

Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative condition, primarily caused by Alzheimer's disease, predominantly affecting elderly individuals. Under these circumstances, dementia care focuses on assisting patients with daily living, either in nursing facilities or at home. The condition imposes substantial economic burdens on patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems, particularly in Europe and North America, where precise cost assessments are essential. This review examines the economic impact of dementia care by integrating diverse cost estimation sources to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of preventive care for high-risk individuals and providing meta-analytic estimates of annual medical, non-medical, and informal care costs per patient, and compares these costs with care effectiveness. The analysis focuses on Europe and the United States, with a greater emphasis on Europe, aiming to encourage further research on preventive strategies and caregiver support. Dementia presents a significant economic challenge globally, driven by rising healthcare costs and an aging population. The disparities between direct and indirect costs in the US and Europe highlight the impact of healthcare systems and cultural practices on dementia care costs. Preventive measures could significantly reduce long-term treatment costs, making them a crucial investment to alleviate future financial burdens.