The economic burden of Alzheimer's disease in Israel.

Owing to expected increases in the number of persons at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease and the expected decrease in the number of potential caregivers, the economic burden on society and families is expected to rise. Given changes in demographics and labor force participation, it is likely that the burden will be transferred from informal to formal paid services. Understanding the burden and cost of caring for this large population of patients is essential in order to make rational decisions with regard to allocating resources and providing quality care.