Key Ideas

According to research commissioned by the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s disease costs U.S. businesses billions each year, stemming from lost productivity and absenteeism with primary caregivers and the business share of health and long-term care expenses.

Millions of working caregivers are providing care to a family member or friend with Alzheimer’s. Addressing ways to support caregivers in the workplace is smart business.

On the customer front, making it easier for people with dementia to do everyday business out in the community has clear benefits:

Retain existing customers. If customers who have dementia and their family caregivers don’t find it easy to use a business, they will likely seek out another.

Attract new customers. Some 60 percent of people with dementia live at home, often with support from families, friends, and the community. Staying engaged in community life means using businesses that are easy to navigate and have helpful, aware staff.