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

Theresa Lona, Abel and Winnie, Johnny and Md Mizanur, Rahman (2026) Factors Associated With Probable Dementia Among Older People in Bau District, Sarawak. Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 22 (1). 1480.1-1480.9. ISSN 2636-9346

PDF Factors Associated.pdf Download (332kB)

Abstract

Introduction: Dementia is a significant public health concern that affects older people and is a major cause of mor-bidity and mortality. A wide range of risk factors was associated with dementia. This study aims to determine the prevalence of probable dementia and its determinants among older people in Bau District, 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 analy-sis, 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, alcohol use, physical activity, gambling, 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 factors among older adults in Bau District, Sarawak, providing insights for targeted health interventions. Further studies should explore detection strategies and prevention across diverse rural and urban populations.

Actions (For repository members only: login required)

View Item