Cognitive Decline and Dementia among Aged Individuals: Awareness, Prevention and Management

Abstract

Despite the growing burden, awareness of dementia and cognitive decline remains critically low and very little has been done to assess this in communities. This study aims to assess the awareness of adults in selected areas of Ogbomosho on cognitive decline and dementia, its prevention and management. The specific objectives are to: Evaluate the current level of awareness and understanding of cognitive decline and dementia, know the level of knowledge of adults in selected areas of Ogbomosho on preventive measures that can reduce the risk, and assess the level of understanding of adults in selected areas of Ogbomosho regarding the available management strategies. A sample size of 202 respondents aged 18 and above was selected for the study. The instrument for data collection was a well-developed and validated self-structured questionnaire. Analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Three null hypotheses were tested using the Chi-square test from which none of the three were accepted. Simple percentage and tables were used to present the data obtained from respondents. Findings from this study showed a varied level of awareness about cognitive decline and dementia, (52.5 %) recognized the common symptoms of dementia. (87 %) have a relatively good level of knowledge on preventive measures among adults. Lastly, findings showed a fair level of understanding of management strategies; however (31.2%) had a few misconceptions about the conditions. Health organizations should collaborate with local healthcare providers to offer regular cognitive assessments in clinics, community centers, and during health outreach programs. Healthcare providers should continue to educate the public on the benefits of a healthy diet, regular physical exercise, mental stimulation, and the avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and healthcare institutions should offer free or low-cost programs to educate the public, especially older adults, about cognitive health and dementia management.