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Rural Alzheimer's Deaths Soar, Diagnoses Lag
10 Dec
Summary
- Rural Alzheimer's deaths are 3-4 times higher than urban areas.
- Fewer family physicians are practicing in rural areas.
- Over 100 rural hospitals closed between 2013 and 2020.
A growing crisis in Alzheimer's care is disproportionately affecting rural America, where deaths from the disease are significantly higher than in urban areas. New research indicates that while some rural counties see three to four times more Alzheimer's deaths, actual diagnoses are lagging, pointing to a critical gap in healthcare access.
This alarming trend is linked to a decline in medical professionals serving rural communities. Between 2017 and 2023, there was an 11 percent drop in family physicians practicing in these regions, with the Northeast being the hardest hit. Compounding this issue, over 100 rural hospitals have closed between 2013 and 2020.
As a result, rural residents, many elderly, face extended travel distances for medical care. This lack of access means potential Alzheimer's cases are being overlooked, creating a two-tiered system of care that leaves many rural communities behind. Experts warn that these disparities observed in specific regions reflect a broader national pattern.
