A Assessment of level of awareness of dementia and its associated risk factors among elderly population of Pakistan aged 60-90 years:A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Dementia is a public health concern globally, with its significant impact on elderly population. Therefore its knowledge is crucial for its early detection, prevention and management to improve quality of life on elderly population . In this study, we assessed the awareness level of dementia and its modifiable risk factors among elderly population of Pakistan.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly population of age 60-90 years in a tertiary care setting and Convalescent home , using non-probability convenient sampling technique. A preformed structured questionnaire was used to collect data and knowledge of dementia and its modifiable risk factors compared with socio-demographic factors.

Results: Out of 84 participants that were recruited for the study, mean age was calculated to be 63 years (S.D =10.3). There was higher proportion of female 51(60.7%) than male. The frequency and percentages of  population who was able to correctly identify risk factors were ( obesity 8(9.5%), diabetes 13 (15.5%),depression 58(69%) , high blood pressure 28(33.3%), smoking 18 (21.4%),high cholesterol levels 7(8.3%)  . High education status, having contact or knowing  someone with dementia or having dementia themselves are factors found to be strongly associated with dementia knowledge and understanding of its risk factors.

Conclusions: Our study findings reveals  low awareness levels of dementia and its risk factors. Moreover, low   education levels are significantly associated with less  dementia knowledge and risk factors  awareness of elderly population. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to increase knowledge of dementia and its associated risk factors. For this purpose, public campaigns and awareness programs should be done. Moreover, primary care providers , and community health care workers can play a significant role in making elderly population aware of dementia that will help in early detection, prevention and ultimately improving quality of life of elderly population.