Dementia Before Death in Ageing Societies
Author Information
Author(s): Carol Brayne, Lu Gao, Michael Dewey, Fiona E. Matthews
Primary Institution: Medical Research Council Cognitive Function and Ageing Study
Hypothesis
Can we prevent, delay, or shorten the course of dementia?
Conclusion
The study found that the prevalence of dementia at death was 30%, and as populations age, the number of people dying with dementia is likely to increase.
Supporting Evidence
- The overall prevalence of dementia at death was found to be 30%.
- Individuals aged 95 and above had a 58% chance of dying with dementia.
- Higher education and social class were associated with slightly lower dementia prevalence before death.
- Women had a higher prevalence of dementia before death compared to men.
- Preventive efforts may not fully counteract the effects of aging on dementia prevalence.
Takeaway
As people get older, they are more likely to have dementia when they die, and even with prevention efforts, many will still experience it.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from the Medical Research Council Cognitive Function and Ageing Study, focusing on individuals aged 65 and over, using logistic regression to estimate dementia prevalence.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from attrition and misclassification of dementia status.
Limitations
The study may underestimate dementia prevalence due to dropout rates and misclassification of cognitive status.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 65 and over, with a mix of urban and rural backgrounds across six study centers in the UK.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI 25%–61%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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