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Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
Issues in evaluation of cognition in the elderly in developing countries
1Department of Neurology, Cognition and Behavioural Neurology Center (CBNC), Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST), Trivandrum - 695 011, India.
Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology
|November 7, 2009
Summary
Collecting reliable dementia data in developing nations is challenging due to community attitudes, low literacy, and poor healthcare infrastructure. Addressing these issues is crucial for global dementia epidemiology.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Epidemiology
- Global Health
Background:
- Developing regions house most elderly individuals susceptible to dementia.
- Reliable epidemiological data from these areas is vital for addressing the global dementia challenge.
- Limited data exists due to unique challenges in developing communities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and describe obstacles to collecting reliable epidemiological data on cognitive impairment in elderly populations in developing communities.
- To propose practical solutions for these identified challenges.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of an extensive, ongoing, population-based study on cognitive impairments in the elderly in South India.
- Comprehensive review of existing literature on the subject.
Main Results:
- Fatalistic community attitudes towards aging pose a significant challenge.
- Heterogeneity in educational abilities and daily living activities complicates data collection.
- High illiteracy rates among rural populations present methodological hurdles.
- Lack of organized healthcare systems and updated demographic data create practical difficulties.
Conclusions:
- Technical (methodology-related) and practical (subject-related) problems significantly impede epidemiological studies in developing regions.
- Addressing community attitudes, educational disparities, and healthcare infrastructure is essential for improving data reliability.
- Future research must consider these unique contextual factors for accurate global dementia burden assessment.
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