Public Health.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Dementia affects over 57 million globally, with a high undiagnosed rate in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Accurate cognitive impairment measures are vital for dementia interventions, treatment, and care planning.
• This study analyzes Tanzanian census data to assess cognitive complaints in seniors and identify influencing factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of subjective memory, hearing, and visual complaints among Tanzanian seniors (60+).
• To explore factors influencing these complaints, including age, education, and gender.
• To assess the suitability of neuropsychological assessment tools for this population.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 2022 Population and Housing Census data from Tanzania for adults aged 60 and above.
• Calculated age-adjusted prevalence using the WHO Direct Method.
• Employed logistic regression and mediation analysis to examine factors associated with memory complaints.

Main Results:

• Literacy (59.7%) and numeracy (67.7%) rates decreased with age among seniors.
• Age-adjusted prevalence: memory complaints 7.3%, hearing complaints 7.5%, visual complaints 16.3%.
• Hearing and visual impairments significantly increased memory complaint likelihood; higher education and marriage reduced this risk.

Conclusions:

• Cognitive functions like literacy and numeracy decline with age in older Tanzanians.
• Sensory impairments (hearing and vision) are prevalent and elevate the risk of subjective memory complaints.
• Findings can guide the development of culturally relevant neuropsychological assessments for seniors in Tanzania.