A Study on the First Stage Dementia Among the Elderly

Abstract

This study investigates the demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and health-related behaviours associated with first-stage dementia among the elderly population. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted among 642 participants aged 60 and above to understand patterns of cognitive decline, emotional well-being, and social engagement. The majority of participants were aged 60–65 years, with a declining trend in older age groups. Gender distribution showed a concentration of females in younger age brackets and a wider age range among males. Marital and educational status highlighted the potential benefits of spousal support and formal education in promoting health awareness and resource accessibility. Lifestyle assessments revealed encouraging trends, with most participants engaging in daily physical activities and maintaining a balanced diet. However, a notable minority displayed unhealthy behaviours, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity. Chronic illnesses were reported by nearly half the participants, correlating with increased memory-related and cognitive difficulties. Cognitive health evaluation showed that 54.05% of respondents reported no memory issues, although a considerable segment reported occasional or rare difficulties, particularly among older individuals and those with chronic illnesses. Emotional and behavioural challenges, including mood swings, difficulty planning, and problem-solving, were more prevalent in older age groups. Social engagement and interest in hobbies declined with age, signalling risks of isolation. Mental stimulation activities were limited, with only 28.03% engaging daily. Despite low current participation in cognitive enhancement practices (only 72 out of 642), nearly 45% showed willingness to attend memory training programs. Additionally, 63.33% expressed openness to Ayurvedic treatment options. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to promote cognitive stimulation, health literacy, and social connectivity to support elderly individuals, especially those at risk of first-stage dementia.