Every 3 seconds, someone in the world develops dementia. Over 55 million people live with dementia today ,rising to 78 million by 2030 and 139 million by 2050. Most growth will be in developing regions — by 2050, 71% of people with dementia will live in low- and middle-income countries.

Early Stage:
Choose a decision-maker and complete advance directives.
Discuss care goals — hospitalizations, code status, and safety.
Review dementia medications and legal planning.

Middle Stage:
Support caregivers and manage agitation, wandering, or confusion.
Explore home help, day centers, or facility options.
Recognize signs of progression such as infections or swallowing issues.

Late Stage:
Focus on comfort feeding rather than feeding tubes.
Manage symptoms such as breathlessness or pain.
Consider hospice when comfort becomes the primary goal.