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Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
Published on: June 20, 2020
Children's Attitudes Toward Dementia: Protocol for a Cross-Sectional Study
Gema Somoza-Fernández1, Javier Ortiz-Alonso1,2,3,4, José Antonio Serra-Rexach1,2,3,4
1Geriatrics Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Calle Doctor Esquerdo 46, Madrid, 28007, Spain, 34 915866704.
Background:
Research on dementia has primarily focused on adults, leaving a gap in understanding related to children's attitudes toward dementia. This gap is relevant given the growing societal impact of dementia and the potential role of early education in shaping attitudes.
Objective:
The primary objective of this study is to assess attitudes toward dementia in a sample of Spanish primary school children. Secondary objectives include (1) examining the psychometric properties of the questionnaire developed for this study, (2) identifying factors associated with differing attitudes toward dementia, and (3) evaluating children's social desirability and its correlation with questionnaire responses.
Methods:
A 23-item, tripartite Likert-type questionnaire (Cuestionario de Actitudes de los Niños Españoles Hacia la Demencia, or "Spanish Children's Attitudes Toward Dementia Questionnaire") was developed through a comprehensive literature review, a pilot study with a convenience sample of 10 children, and expert panel consultation. The study sample will comprise children aged 8 to 11 years enrolled in the fourth and fifth grades at 6 selected schools in the Community of Madrid, Spain. Participants will complete the questionnaire alongside a social desirability scale. Additional variables (eg, current or previous cohabitation with grandparents) will be collected to explore factors associated with differing attitudes toward dementia.
Results:
This study is not funded. Data collection began in January 2025 and is projected to conclude in January 2026. As of July 2025, a total of 164 participants from 3 selected schools have been recruited. Data analysis is expected to begin in January 2026, and results are planned for publication in 2027.
Conclusions:
This study represents a feasible and novel initiative that may enhance understanding of children's attitudes toward dementia. The findings could inform the development of targeted educational interventions and support the inclusion of dementia-related content in school-based education.
