On March 23, the Alzheimer’s Association^® released 2015 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. This annual report shows that Alzheimer’s disease is on an increasingly destructive path.

According to Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures, from 2000-2013, the number of deaths from Alzheimer’s disease increased 71 percent, while deaths from other major diseases decreased. And while the disease continues to rank as the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States, it actually causes more deaths than official sources recognize. Acute conditions, like pneumonia, are often listed as the cause of death rather than the underlying chronic disease — Alzheimer’s.

In addition to the human toll, the report confirms that Alzheimer’s is the most expensive disease in the nation, costing the country $226 billion this year. These costs will grow exponentially as baby boomers age and are projected to increase to more than $1.1 trillion in 2050.

Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures also includes a special report on how health care providers disclose an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Only 45 percent of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or their caregivers reported being told the diagnosis, whereas people with the four most common cancers and their caregivers reported diagnosis disclosure rates of more than 90 percent. An accurate and timely diagnosis is important to people facing the disease so they can maximize their quality of life and play an active role in planning for the future.

Visit alz.org/facts to download the full Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures report and watch our video.

The holidays are often filled with sharing, laughter and the enjoyment of each other’s company. But they can also be filled with stress, disappointment and sadness. A person with Alzheimer’s disease may feel a special sense of loss during the holidays because of the challenges he or she has experienced. At the same time, caregivers may feel overwhelmed with the responsibility of maintaining traditions while caring for a friend or family member.

The holidays can be less stressful for everyone when activities are planned ahead of time. The Alzheimer’s Association^® offers resources like the Holidays information sheet as well as the Holidays and Alzheimer’s Families page on alz.org/care to help caregivers approach the season and make celebrations more enjoyable for all.

During this season of togetherness, people visit with friends and family they rarely see face-to-face, providing an opportunity to notice the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease. If you observe any of these signs in a friend or family member, it’s important to see a doctor to determine the cause. Early detection allows people to plan for the future and live well for as long as possible.