Factors associated with dementia among older people in Malaysia: Findings from National Health and Morbidity Survey

OBJECTIVE: To identify factors associated with dementia among older people in Malaysia.

METHODS: This study used data from a nationwide cross-sectional survey in Malaysia. Participants involved were older people aged 60 years and above. Data collected were on dementia risk factors as well as dementia screening. Dementia screening was done using the Identification and Intervention for Dementia in Elderly Africans cognitive screening tool. Univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression were carried out to determine the factors associated with dementia.

RESULTS: There were 3774 participants involved in this study. Multiple logistic regression showed factors associated with dementia among older people were those aged 70 years and above, Indian ethnic group, being single, primary or no formal education, as well as those with hypertension. Interestingly, our findings also showed that older people with hypercholesterolemia have lower odds of having dementia.

CONCLUSIONS: Multiple factors were associated with dementia in Malaysia, highlighting the need to implement multiple interventions strategies, by taking a lifetime approach emphasizing education, physical as well as social aspects.