Dementia care in a rapidly aging society.

INTRODUCTION

As one of the most rapidly aging societies globally, Korea's efforts to mitigate the social burden of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) may provide valuable insights.

METHODS

We conducted a mixed-methods review of studies and policies related to dementia care in Korea over the past 25 years, including quantitative analysis of administrative and comparative data.

RESULTS

Estimates suggest a high social burden from ADRD, with annual costs increasing from 0.9% to 3.8% of gross domestic product between 2019 and 2050. Pilot programs for integrated community care and hospice palliative care reveal the advantages of innovating from a foundation of national health insurance and long-term care insurance, as well as the continuing challenges of appropriately designing programs and incentives for early detection, integrated care, and late-life palliative care.

DISCUSSION

A rigorous analysis of programs addressing uneven quality and a study of the impact of integrated care models for home- and community-based services would be valuable.

HIGHLIGHTS

A mixed-method review highlights the challenges of rapid aging in Korea. Universal health and long-term care systems support innovation for dementia care. Dementia costs are projected to increase from 0.9% to 3.8% of gross domestic product in 2019-2050. Pilots of integrated community care and hospice palliative care show promise. Rigorous analysis of programs to address uneven quality would be valuable.