South Dakota sees high number of cases of Alzheimer’s throughout the state

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) - An estimated 6.9 million Americans over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s dementia, and these numbers continue to rise nationwide.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, in South Dakota, the prevalence of the disease in adults over the age of 65 is 16,500 as of 2020.

A factor that plays into this issue is the lack of dementia care specialists in the state, prompting South Dakota to be termed a dementia neurology desert. This means that by next year, there will be fewer than 10 neurologists per 100,000 people with dementia.

The Alzheimer’s Association encourages people of all ages to continue to spread awareness of the issue and the disease, along with pushing for more people to get tested or screened.

“We also should push when you go in for your annual wellness check for a cognitive test so you have a baseline. So that they can do a quick check with you when you’re right in your doctor’s office to see where you are right now. So that way, ten years down the road, you have somewhere to know if it’s staying about the same if it’s regular aging,” explained South Dakota Alzheimer’s Association state executive director Leslie Morrow. “Thankfully, more people, I think, are stepping out and seeking help. They’re not walking this journey alone, but it also reminds us each and every day how many of our friends and neighbors are affected by it and the work we have to do.”

Alzheimer’s is also considered one of the most expensive diseases to live with, not only for the people affected but also for the caretakers and their families.

The Alzheimer’s Association cites that in 2023 $24,776 was spent on medicare spending in the state per capita on people with dementia.

You can call (800) 272-3900 for the 24-hour helpline number where you can learn more about the resources available to you and learn more about Alzheimer’s in general.

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