2026 Survey Results: Alzheimer’s Care, As Families Actually Experience It

New national research reveals the hidden burdens of caregiving, uneven communication, and the gaps that matter most to patients and families

Patients for a Cure conducted a national survey of 300 U.S. respondents to better understand Alzheimer’s care experiences - from diagnosis to daily caregiving, from provider communication to lifestyle guidance, clinical trial access, emotional support, and financial pressures. Importantly, 92% of respondents are caregivers, while 8% are individuals living with Alzheimer’s. Findings therefore reflect the perspectives of both groups, with caregiver experiences dominating the sample.

Based on a survey of 300 patients and caregivers, the findings show a clear pattern: caregiving disrupts nearly every aspect of life, communication from providers is inconsistent, emotional and financial support is often missing, and access to emerging diagnostics and clinical trials is uneven. Many families are navigating moderate to severe disease without clear guidance on what comes next. Women, who make up the majority of caregivers, receive less information than men despite carrying more responsibility

What families say they need most is not abstract innovation. They want clearer communication, lower costs, better emotional support, and practical guidance they can actually use.

This research is a reminder that improving Alzheimer’s care is not just about new treatments. It is about fixing the everyday gaps that shape real lives.