Factors Associated With Probable Dementia Among Older People in Bau District, Sarawak

Abstract

Introduction: Dementia is a significant public health concern that affects older people and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. A wide range of risk factors was associated with dementia. This study aims to determine the prevalence probable dementia dementia and determinants among older people in Bau, Sarawak. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Bau District among older residents. A multi-stage sampling was used. This research applied a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographics, mental health, behaviours, and medical conditions. The Elderly Cognitive Assessment Questionnaire (ECAQ) was used to measure the probable dementia. Data were collected through researcheradministered interviews. SPSS version 27 was used for data entry and analysis, including descriptive statistics, Chi-Square tests, and binary logistic regression to identify predictors of probable dementia. Results: 382 respondents completed the questionnaires, with an 86.2% response rate. Probable dementia prevalence was 15.4%, with significant associations found for age, gender, marital status, education, occupation, physical, and depression. Binary logistic regression analysis identified older age (OR=27.676, 95% CI=8.250, 92.841; p <.001), lack of formal education (OR=25.204, 95% CI=4.490, 141.499; p <.001), and the presence of depression (OR=3.189, 95% CI=1.451, 7.101; p=.004) as significant predictors of prob-able dementia. Conclusion: This research identified probable dementia prevalence and associated among older adults in Bau insights for targeted interventions. Further studies should explore detection strategies and prevention across diverse rural and urban populations.