Dementia in Pennsylvania, by the numbers
The Alzheimer's Association estimates that 282,100 Pennsylvanians aged 65 and older live with Alzheimer's disease, about 11.5% of that age group. They are supported by 472,000 unpaid family caregivers, who provided 835 million hours of care valued at $17.2 billion.[1]
The same report shows the strain on those caregivers: 76.6% have a chronic health condition of their own and 32.5% report depression. Pennsylvania also needs 15.3% more home health and personal care aides by 2032 to meet demand.[1]
Signs it may be time for in-home dementia care
- Leaving the stove on, doors unlocked, or water running.
- Getting lost on familiar routes, or wandering, especially in the evening.
- Missed or doubled medications.
- Weight loss, skipped meals, or spoiled food in the refrigerator.
- Declining hygiene, or wearing the same clothes for days.
- Increased agitation, anxiety, or confusion late in the day.
- A family caregiver who is exhausted, missing work, or getting sick.
Any one of these is worth a conversation with your loved one's doctor. Several together usually mean the current plan needs more hands.
What in-home dementia care includes
- Structure and routine. Predictable days reduce anxiety and difficult behaviors.
- Safety supervision. Redirection, wander prevention, and a safer home layout.
- Personal care with dignity. Bathing, dressing, and toileting with patience and consistent caregivers.
- Meaningful engagement. Music, photos, simple tasks, walks, and conversation.
- Family respite. Scheduled breaks so the primary caregiver can rest.
Home, memory care, or both?
In-home care keeps a familiar setting, which can ease confusion. As needs grow toward around-the-clock supervision, families often compare home care hours against memory care or assisted living. In Pennsylvania, the 2025 median for assisted living was $6,480 per month, and for home care it was $34 per hour.[3] We will give you an honest view of which option fits your situation.
Support for Pittsburgh-area dementia caregivers
Pennsylvania's Caregiver Support Program, run through your local Area Agency on Aging, can help with respite and reimburse caregiving costs up to $600 a month for eligible caregivers.[2] The Alzheimer's Association also offers a free 24/7 helpline and local support groups.
Explore our dementia and Alzheimer's care, respite care, and companion care. We serve families across Allegheny County, including Monroeville, Bethel Park, and Fox Chapel.
Frequently asked questions
Can a person with dementia stay at home?
Often, yes, especially in the early and middle stages, with a consistent routine, a safer home, and trained caregivers. Needs change over time, so the care plan should be reviewed regularly.
When does someone with dementia need full-time care?
Common signs include wandering, unsafe cooking or driving, missed medications, falls, and a family caregiver who can no longer keep up. A doctor and a care assessment can help you decide.
How many Pennsylvanians have Alzheimer’s?
The Alzheimer’s Association estimates 282,100 Pennsylvanians aged 65 and older live with Alzheimer’s disease, about 11.5% of that age group.
Sources
- Alzheimer’s Association, 2026 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures — Pennsylvania (2026). Accessed November 2026.
- Pennsylvania Department of Aging, About the Caregiver Support Program. Accessed November 2026.
- CareScout (Genworth), Cost of Care Survey 2025 — Median Cost Data Tables (2026). Accessed November 2026.
This guide is general information, not medical, legal, or financial advice. Program rules and costs change; confirm details with the program or your care team.