Cost Estimation Analysis of Dementia: A Scope Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Health Economics
• Public Health

Background:

• Dementia, often caused by Alzheimer's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition predominantly affecting the elderly.
• Dementia care involves assisting patients with daily living, impacting patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems economically.
• Substantial economic burdens necessitate precise cost assessments, particularly in Europe and North America.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the economic impact of dementia care.
• To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of preventive care for high-risk individuals.
• To provide meta-analytic estimates of dementia care costs and compare them with care effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• Integrating diverse cost estimation sources.
• Conducting a meta-analysis of annual medical, non-medical, and informal care costs per patient.
• Focusing analysis on Europe and the United States, with an emphasis on Europe.

Main Results:

• Dementia presents a significant global economic challenge, exacerbated by rising healthcare costs and aging populations.
• Disparities in direct and indirect costs between the US and Europe reflect variations in healthcare systems and cultural practices.
• Preventive measures show potential for significant long-term cost reduction.

Conclusions:

• Preventive dementia care is a crucial investment to alleviate future financial burdens.
• Further research on preventive strategies and enhanced caregiver support is encouraged.
• Understanding economic impacts is vital for effective dementia care policy and resource allocation.