Urban dementia screening study highlights gaps in awareness and early detection
An urban dementia screening study, involving 716 older adults from upper socio-economic backgrounds across apartment complexes in Bengaluru, has found that family members and the elderly often miss early signs of cognitive decline.
The study conducted by Dementia India Alliance (DIA), an NGO promoting dementia care in the country, in association with Athulya Senior Care, has found that stigma continues to prevent timely screening, even in educated communities.
This initiative comes in the wake of growing evidence of the rising prevalence of dementia in India. The Longitudinal Aging Study in India - Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (LASI-DAD) has estimated that over 7.4% of Indians aged 60 and above may be living with dementia, with nearly 90% remaining undiagnosed owing to a lack of awareness, stigma, and access to trained professionals.
Findings of study
Giving details of the findings, Ramani Sundaram, executive director of DIA, told presspersons on Thursday that among 591 elders aged 60-plus, 12.2% of the individuals were identified with cognitive impairment through HMSE (Hindi Mental State Examination) score of ≤23. While 29.2% men and 25% women had at least one vascular comorbidity, 30.6% men and 26.4% women had either hearing or vision impairment. These findings highlight the need to address vascular risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and sensory impairments, all of which were commonly observed among participants, she said.
The study found that family members of 56.9% individuals screened failed to recognise early signs of cognitive decline, underscoring how stigma continues to delay timely screening even in educated communities.
An additional 72 participants had scored 24-26 in HMSE, 59.7% amongst them male. These individuals are considered a vulnerable population and will be followed up with individual and family education to encourage further assessment, she said.
Among 79 individuals aged between 50 and 59, 11.4% had cognitive impairment, of which 66.7% individuals had at least one vascular or sensory comorbidity. This early-onset trend further emphasises the need for preventive strategies and early interventions, even among younger older adults.
Further assessment
Radha S. Murthy, DIA president, said individuals identified with cognitive impairment and those belonging to the vulnerable group will be referred and followed up through DemClinic – the free online memory clinic – for further assessment and personalised risk reduction counselling.
The study findings raise urgent questions about preparedness, access to assessment, and culturally appropriate tools for early detection in India's rapidly ageing population. In addition, the study brings to light the need for more nuanced public education and targeted outreach, especially in urban settings where denial and fear of diagnosis often deter participation, she said.
'The data reinforces what we see in the field — awareness is still low, even among well-educated families. We need multi-layered approaches to ensure people are assessed early and guided to appropriate care and support,' Dr. Murthy added.
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