Ageing and dementia in low and middle income countries - Using research to engage with public and policy makers
2008

Ageing and Dementia in Low and Middle Income Countries

Sample size: 19000 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Martin Prince, Daisy Acosta, Emiliano Albanese, Raul Arizaga, Cleusa P. Ferri, Mariella Guerra, Yueqin Huang, Ks Jacob, Ivonne Z. Jimenez-Velazquez, Juan Llibre Rodriguez, Achiles Salas, Ana Luisa Sosa, Renata Sousa, Richard Uwakwe, Rikus Van Der Poel, Joseph Williams, Marc Wortmann

Primary Institution: King’s College London

Hypothesis

There is a need for more research to support policy making for dementia care in low and middle income countries.

Conclusion

The study highlights the urgent need for more epidemiological research to address the unmet needs of older people with dementia in low and middle income countries.

Supporting Evidence

  • Two thirds of the 24 million people with dementia live in low and middle income countries.
  • International agreements have called for an end to ageist discrimination.
  • Very little research has been conducted to support policy making in these regions.
  • Chronic non-communicable diseases linked to ageing are becoming more common.

Takeaway

Many older people with dementia live in poorer countries, and they need more help and research to improve their care.

Methodology

The study involved population-based surveys in 10 low and middle income countries, focusing on dementia prevalence and impact.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to underreporting and lack of awareness about dementia in low and middle income countries.

Limitations

The research is limited by the lack of comprehensive epidemiological studies in many regions, particularly in Latin America and Africa.

Participant Demographics

The study included older adults aged 65 and over from various low and middle income countries.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1080/09540260802094712

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