Alzheimer’s Prevalence Among Seniors in Florida Among Highest Nationwide

According to recent data from the Alzheimer’s Association, Florida has one of the highest rates of Alzheimer’s disease among seniors in the United States, Axios reports.

Approximately 12.5% of Floridians aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, which translates to about 580,000 cases based on 2020 figures.

This is part of a larger trend in the US, where more than 7 million seniors now suffer from Alzheimer’s, marking the highest number ever recorded. Addressing cognitive decline early remains a key strategy to help delay or reduce the severity of the disease. However, with the growing prevalence of Alzheimer’s, it has become a significant public health concern.

The Alzheimer’s Association report shows a clear correlation between age and the likelihood of developing the disease. For example, 5.1% of individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 are affected, while 33.4% of those aged 85 and older experience cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s.

The report also sheds light on the gender disparity, with nearly two-thirds of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in the US being women.

While Florida ranks high, it is not the state with the most significant prevalence. Washington DC has the highest percentage of seniors with Alzheimer’s at 16.8%, followed by Maryland at 12.9% and New York at 12.7%.

For those in high-risk age groups, it’s important to be aware of potential warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other forms of cognitive decline. These include:

• Difficulty finding the right word

• Trouble judging distances

• Frequently misplacing items and struggling to retrace steps

If these symptoms appear repeatedly over time, it may be an indication that a visit to a healthcare provider is necessary. However, sudden symptoms could suggest a different issue entirely, warranting immediate medical attention.