Exploring Psychosocial Factors and Dementia Prevalence in East Asia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.3540Keywords:
dementia, dementia prevalence, East Asia mental health, dementia stigma, cross-cultural health, neurodegeneration, filial care, caregiver burden, family caregiving, social isolationAbstract
Dementia is an umbrella term for progressive neurodegeneration, characterized by decline in one or more cognitive domains that interfere with daily functioning [1]. This review investigates dementia prevalence in East Asian countries and the unique sociocultural factors that may distinguish its development from Western countries. Alongside prevalence, sociocultural factors in East Asia will be discussed, such as identifying with a culture of independence, which can reduce opportunities for cognitive stimulation and emotional connection and increase dementia risk [2]. This paper also explores how stigma and family caregiving dynamics influence dementia diagnosis and care. Findings from this research will not only help health professionals direct personalized care methods, but educate individuals living in and/or identifying as East Asian, to hopefully mitigate the rising rates of dementia that are ongoing and predicted to increase.
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