Subjective Cognitive Decline Among Adults Aged ≥45 Years—United States, 2023

In 2025, an estimated 7.2 million Americans aged ≥65 years had Alzheimer’s disease. Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is an early indicator of possible future dementia. Using 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data, this study described the SCD prevalence among US adults aged ≥45 years. Estimates were examined by selected characteristics, state, and SCD-related features, including worry, functional limitations, and discussions about SCD with a health care provider. Overall, SCD prevalence was 16.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 16.5-17.3). Among those reporting SCD, 59.3% (95% CI = 57.9-60.7) were worried about it and 42.8% (95% CI = 41.4-44.1) reported having discussed SCD with a health care provider. Engaging health care providers about concerns related to memory loss or increasing confusion is a key to early identification, diagnosis, and management. These findings emphasize the need for targeted public health efforts to support individuals with SCD—especially among high-risk populations.