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February 10, 2024
A groundbreaking study published in the journal PLOS One has unveiled alarming statistics regarding the prevalence of neurocognitive disorders among older adults in India. Nearly one in five Indian adults aged 60 and above exhibit signs of mild neurocognitive disorder, shedding light on the profound impact of cognitive impairment on aging populations.
With an estimated 138 million adults over the age of 60 in India, the study’s estimates suggest that approximately 24 million individuals are living with mild neurocognitive disorder, while an additional 9.9 million are affected by major neurocognitive disorder. Conducted by a collaborative team from St. John’s Medical College in Bengaluru and Johns Hopkins University in the US, the study underscores the urgent need to address the burgeoning burden of dementia in India.
“The prevalence of major neurocognitive disorder increases significantly with age, highlighting the profound impact of aging on cognitive health,” remarked researchers involved in the study.
To ascertain the prevalence and impact of neurocognitive disorders, the research team recruited nearly 4,100 participants from 18 geographically and linguistically diverse states across India. Participants ranged from 60 to 79 years of age, with the majority falling within this age bracket.
Analysis of the data revealed higher prevalence rates of neurocognitive disorders among older adults, particularly those with lower educational attainment and residing in rural areas. Major neurocognitive disorder was found to be more prevalent among illiterate individuals and rural dwellers, emphasizing the intersection of socioeconomic factors and cognitive health outcomes.
“These findings underscore the pressing need for targeted interventions and support systems for older adults grappling with neurocognitive disorders,” emphasized the researchers.
Utilizing the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a clinical diagnostic framework, the study identified a population prevalence of 17.6 percent for mild neurocognitive disorder and 7.2 percent for major neurocognitive disorder. Additionally, a significant proportion of participants reported impairments in activities of daily living, further underscoring the multifaceted challenges posed by cognitive decline in aging populations.
As India’s population continues to age rapidly, the findings of this study serve as a wake-up call for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and society at large. Addressing the complex interplay of socioeconomic factors and cognitive health is paramount to ensuring the well-being and dignity of older adults in India and beyond.
