Background: Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with profound implications for patients, caregivers, and the healthcare system. Early detection and timely intervention are critical to improving patient outcomes and reducing the societal burden. However, public knowledge and awareness of dementia remain limited, particularly in culturally diverse and resource-constrained settings like Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and understanding of dementia among the general population, focusing on its symptoms, risk factors, and management strategies. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, over three months (August to October 2024). A structured questionnaire was administered to 400 participants selected using a multistage sampling technique. The questionnaire included socio-demographic variables and 20 questions assessing dementia knowledge, covering symptoms, risk factors, prevention, and caregiver needs. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, with knowledge levels classified as very good (>80% correct responses), good (60–79%), fair (41–59%), and poor (<40%). Results: The study included 400 participants, with 55% females and 45% males. The majority were aged 26–45 years (60.5%), predominantly rural residents (65%), and from middle-income households (40%). Knowledge assessment revealed that 27% of participants had very good knowledge, 36% had good knowledge, 27% scored fair, and 10% demonstrated poor knowledge. While 78% correctly identified dementia as a neurodegenerative disorder, knowledge gaps were evident in understanding genetic risk factors (64%), modifiable lifestyle factors (69%), and caregiver psychological challenges (62%). Strong support was observed for caregiver-focused interventions (79.5%) and public awareness programs (80%). Conclusion: The findings highlight a foundational understanding of dementia among the general population in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, but also underscore significant gaps in technical knowledge and preventive strategies. Community-centered educational initiatives targeting these gaps are essential to fostering early detection, informed decision-making, and supportive care. By leveraging local healthcare networks and digital platforms, sustained efforts can enhance dementia awareness and care in the region.
Dementia, a chronic and progressive syndrome affecting cognitive function, is emerging as a significant public health challenge globally. Characterized by memory loss, impaired judgment, and behavioral changes, dementia significantly impacts the quality of life of individuals and places a substantial burden on caregivers and healthcare systems. According to the World Health Organization, the prevalence of dementia is rapidly rising, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where nearly 60% of cases are reported. In India, the growing aging population and limited awareness of dementia pose significant challenges for early diagnosis, management, and support services [1-4].
Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat, represents an intriguing setting for studying public knowledge of dementia due to its blend of urban development and cultural diversity. While healthcare facilities in Gandhinagar are relatively advanced, awareness about neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia remains largely unexplored. Misconceptions and stigma surrounding dementia often lead to delays in seeking medical intervention, exacerbating the burden on individuals and families. Addressing this gap in awareness is crucial to promoting early diagnosis and comprehensive care [5-8].
Existing literature emphasizes the importance of community awareness and education in mitigating the impact of dementia. Public knowledge of risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures is essential to fostering timely intervention and creating a supportive environment for individuals living with the condition [9-11]. However, there is limited data on the level of awareness and understanding of dementia among the general population in urban Indian settings like Gandhinagar.
This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of dementia among the general public in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. By identifying gaps in understanding and potential barriers to seeking care, the research seeks to provide insights for designing targeted educational initiatives. Empowering communities with knowledge about dementia can contribute to reducing stigma, promoting early diagnosis, and improving the overall quality of care for individuals and families affected by this condition.
Research Approach
This study employed a descriptive, cross-sectional design to assess the knowledge and awareness of dementia among the general public in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The approach was selected to capture a snapshot of the community's understanding of dementia and its associated risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures.
Study Area
The study was conducted in Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat, known for its mix of urbanization and traditional cultural values. The city's diverse population, including individuals from various educational and socio-economic backgrounds, provided a representative sample for the study.
Study Duration
The research was conducted over a three-month period, from July to September 2024, ensuring sufficient time for participant recruitment and comprehensive data collection.
Study Population
The study targeted adults aged 18 years and above who were residents of Gandhinagar for at least one year. Both men and women were included to ensure a balanced representation of the population. Participants were chosen from a variety of locations, including public spaces, residential areas, and healthcare facilities, to capture diverse perspectives.
Sample Size
The sample size was calculated based on a 95% confidence level, an estimated 50% awareness level of dementia, and a 5% margin of error. Using this formula, a total of 400 participants were included in the study to ensure robust and reliable data.
Study Tool
A pre-validated, structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The questionnaire was divided into two main sections:
Socio-Demographic Details: This section gathered information on participants’ age, gender, education level, occupation, monthly household income, and area of residence.
Knowledge and Awareness Assessment: This section comprised 20 multiple-choice and true/false questions focusing on:
Symptoms and Risk Factors: Recognition of dementia symptoms such as memory loss, disorientation, and behavioral changes, and understanding of risk factors like age, genetics, and lifestyle
Preventive Measures: Awareness of lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise, that could reduce the risk of dementia
Treatment and Management: Knowledge of available treatment options and the importance of early diagnosis
Stigma and Misconceptions: Identifying common misconceptions and barriers to seeking care
Each correct response was awarded one point, with overall knowledge categorized as:
Very Good: 16–20 points
Good: 12–15 points
Fair: 8–11 points
Poor: <8 points
Data Collection
Data were collected through both online and in-person surveys. In-person surveys were conducted at community centers, parks, shopping malls, and healthcare facilities to include individuals with limited internet access. Online surveys were distributed via social media platforms and messaging apps to reach a broader audience.
Data Analysis
The collected data were compiled and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and Epi Info V7 software. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were calculated to evaluate the levels of awareness and knowledge. Chi-square tests were applied to identify associations between socio-demographic variables and knowledge levels.
Ethical Considerations
Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the institutional ethics committee. All participants were informed about the study's purpose, and their consent was obtained prior to participation. Confidentiality and anonymity of responses were strictly maintained throughout the research process. Participants were informed of their right to withdraw from the study at any stage without any consequences.
The socio-demographic profile of 400 participants provided insights into the diverse characteristics of the general population in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. A majority of the participants were female (56%), with males accounting for 44%. The predominant age group was 26–35 years (32%), followed by 36–45 years (26.5%), reflecting a population likely to be engaged in caregiving roles or familial responsibilities. Educational attainment varied, with a significant proportion completing secondary school (29%) and undergraduate degrees (27.5%), highlighting a fairly educated population. Rural residents (65%) outnumbered urban residents (35%), emphasizing the relevance of addressing awareness gaps in rural settings. Occupations included a mix of service roles (31%), agriculture/labor (27%), and homemaking (22%), indicating economic diversity. Household income distribution showed that 39% earned between INR 10,001–20,000, reflecting a socio-economic spectrum that could influence healthcare access and awareness.
The knowledge assessment revealed varying levels of awareness regarding dementia among participants. Most respondents (74.5%) correctly identified dementia as a neurodegenerative condition, and 78% recognized memory loss as a common early symptom. Encouragingly, 81% understood the link between dementia and mood or behavioral changes, while 79% were aware that dementia is not a normal part of aging. However, technical aspects such as genetic risk factors (66%) and lifestyle contributions like smoking (67%) showed moderate awareness.
Table 1: Socio-Demographic Variables of Study Participants
Variable | Categories | Frequency (n) | Percentage |
Gender | Male | 176 | 44.0 |
Female | 224 | 56.0 | |
Age Group (Years) | 18–25 | 78 | 19.5 |
26–35 | 128 | 32.0 | |
36–45 | 106 | 26.5 | |
46–55 | 64 | 16.0 | |
56 and above | 24 | 6.0 | |
Education Level | No formal education | 42 | 10.5 |
Primary school | 86 | 21.5 | |
Secondary school | 116 | 29.0 | |
Undergraduate degree | 110 | 27.5 | |
Postgraduate degree | 46 | 11.5 | |
Occupation | Agriculture/Labor | 108 | 27.0 |
Homemaker | 88 | 22.0 | |
Service (Private/Government) | 124 | 31.0 | |
Business | 50 | 12.5 | |
Student | 30 | 7.5 | |
Area of Residence | Urban | 140 | 35.0 |
Rural | 260 | 65.0 | |
Monthly Household Income | <10,000 INR | 92 | 23.0 |
10,001–20,000 INR | 156 | 39.0 | |
20,001–40,000 INR | 116 | 29.0 | |
>40,000 INR | 36 | 9.0 |
Nearly 80.5% acknowledged the importance of community support in managing dementia, and 82.5% emphasized the caregiver's role in dementia management. Notably, 79.5% supported including caregivers in dementia education programs, indicating a readiness for holistic educational interventions. These findings underscore a foundational awareness of dementia but reveal gaps in technical knowledge that need targeted education.
Knowledge scores highlighted the population's varied understanding of dementia. Approximately 27% of participants exhibited very good knowledge (16–20 points), while the majority (36%) demonstrated good knowledge (12–15 points), suggesting a solid baseline awareness. However, 27% fell into the fair category (8–11 points), indicating partial understanding, and 10% scored poorly (<8 points), underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address significant knowledge gaps. These results reflect a mixed awareness landscape where educational campaigns and structured training programs could play a transformative role in enhancing understanding and preparedness for managing dementia in the community.
The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the knowledge and awareness of dementia among the general population in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, highlighting both strengths and significant areas for improvement. Dementia, a neurodegenerative disorder with far-reaching implications for patients and caregivers, requires comprehensive public awareness to ensure early detection, timely intervention, and effective management. This study's results offer a foundation for addressing knowledge gaps and tailoring interventions to the socio-demographic and cultural context of the region.
The socio-demographic data reflect the diverse composition of the Gandhinagar population, which includes a majority of rural residents (65%), individuals from middle-income households, and a mix of occupations. The higher participation of females (56%) and the dominance of the reproductive and caregiving age group (26–45 years) underline the importance of involving both men and women in dementia awareness initiatives, given their roles as caregivers and decision-makers in family health. The significant representation of individuals with secondary and undergraduate education highlights the potential for targeted educational interventions to enhance understanding of dementia among this group. However, the rural-urban divide, coupled with the socio-economic disparities, indicates barriers to healthcare access and information dissemination, particularly in resource-limited settings.
The knowledge assessment results revealed encouraging levels of basic awareness regarding dementia. The majority of participants correctly identified dementia as a neurodegenerative disorder and associated it with memory loss and mood changes, highlighting a foundational understanding of the condition. Additionally, a substantial proportion of respondents recognized the role of lifestyle factors and community support in dementia prevention and management, indicating a readiness to engage with health education programs.
Table 2: Awareness and Knowledge Assessment of Dementia
| Question | Options | Frequency of Correct Responses | Percent (%) |
What is dementia? | a) Memory disorder, b) Neurodegenerative condition, c) Viral infection, d) Heart disease | 298 | 74.5 |
Can dementia affect younger individuals? | a) Yes, b) Rarely, c) No, d) Only due to injury | 276 | 69.0 |
What is a common early symptom of dementia? | a) Fatigue, b) Memory loss, c) Fever, d) Joint pain | 312 | 78.0 |
Can dementia lead to mood changes and behavioral issues? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only in severe cases, d) Rarely | 324 | 81.0 |
Is dementia a normal part of aging? | a) No, b) Yes, c) Only in certain populations, d) Rarely | 316 | 79.0 |
Can regular physical activity reduce the risk of dementia? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only for young adults, d) Rarely | 280 | 70.0 |
What lifestyle factor increases the risk of dementia? | a) Smoking, b) High salt intake, c) Skipping breakfast, d) Avoiding exercise | 268 | 67.0 |
Are genetic factors a risk for dementia? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Rarely, d) Only in older individuals | 264 | 66.0 |
Is dementia treatable or reversible? | a) Fully reversible, b) Manageable but not curable, c) Not treatable, d) Rarely | 286 | 71.5 |
What is the importance of early diagnosis in dementia? | a) Delays progression, b) Prevents disease, c) Cures completely, d) Not necessary | 314 | 78.5 |
Can a healthy diet help in dementia prevention? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Rarely, d) Only in young adults | 288 | 72.0 |
Should dementia education programs include caregivers? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only family members, d) Occasionally | 318 | 79.5 |
Can dementia affect physical abilities in later stages? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Rarely, d) Only in advanced conditions | 294 | 73.5 |
Is mental stimulation a preventive strategy for dementia? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Rarely, d) Only for young adults | 308 | 77.0 |
Can community support improve outcomes for dementia patients? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Rarely, d) Occasionally | 322 | 80.5 |
Are socio-cultural norms a barrier to seeking dementia care in Gandhinagar? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Occasionally, d) Only in rural areas | 296 | 74.0 |
Should both genders be equally educated about dementia? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only men, d) Only women | 320 | 80.0 |
Can financial constraints hinder dementia diagnosis and care? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Occasionally, d) Rarely | 284 | 71.0 |
Is depression a risk factor for dementia? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Rarely, d) Only in younger individuals | 278 | 69.5 |
What is the role of a caregiver in dementia management? | a) Irrelevant, b) Crucial, c) Rarely necessary, d) Only in advanced stages | 330 | 82.5 |
Table 3: Knowledge Score Classification
Knowledge Category | Score Range | Frequency (n) | Percentage (%) |
Very Good | 16–20 | 108 | 27.0 |
Good | 12–15 | 144 | 36.0 |
Fair | 8–11 | 108 | 27.0 |
Poor | <8 | 40 | 10.0 |
However, significant knowledge gaps were evident in more technical areas, such as the genetic risk factors for dementia and the role of comorbid conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Awareness of modifiable lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation was moderate, underscoring the need for public health messaging that emphasizes these aspects. The moderate understanding of caregiver needs and the psychological impact of dementia reflects an opportunity to integrate caregiver education into community programs. The strong support (79.5%) for caregiver-focused interventions suggests a community inclination towards holistic dementia management, which can be leveraged for sustainable health initiatives.
The distribution of knowledge scores highlights a mixed awareness landscape. While 27% of participants demonstrated very good knowledge and 36% exhibited good understanding, the significant proportion of fair (27%) and poor (10%) scores underscores the need for targeted interventions. These findings indicate that while a majority have a foundational understanding of dementia, there is a substantial segment of the population with limited knowledge, particularly in rural areas. Such gaps can delay early detection and intervention, exacerbating the disease burden and straining healthcare resources.
Public Health Implications
The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive, community-centered educational campaigns to enhance dementia awareness. These campaigns should address technical knowledge gaps, emphasize the importance of early detection, and highlight the modifiable risk factors for dementia. Leveraging local community networks, healthcare providers, and digital platforms can significantly improve information dissemination, especially in rural areas [12-14].
The integration of dementia education into existing healthcare services, such as primary care visits and community health worker programs, can enhance the reach and sustainability of such initiatives. Additionally, engaging schools, workplaces, and local organizations to raise awareness about dementia and its impact can foster a supportive environment for patients and caregivers. The strong community support for including caregivers in educational programs indicates a readiness to adopt holistic approaches, which are essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by dementia [15-17].
Limitations and Future Directions
While the study provides critical insights, it has limitations that warrant consideration. The reliance on self-reported data may introduce response bias, and the exclusion of individuals without access to the survey could limit representativeness. Future studies should consider employing mixed methodologies, including qualitative interviews and focus group discussions, to gain deeper insights into community perceptions and barriers. Additionally, longitudinal studies assessing the impact of educational interventions on dementia awareness and management outcomes would provide robust evidence for policy-making and program development.
This study highlights a foundational understanding of dementia among the general population in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, while identifying significant gaps in technical knowledge and preventive awareness. Addressing these gaps through targeted, culturally appropriate interventions is crucial for empowering individuals, fostering informed health-seeking behaviors, and enhancing dementia care. By leveraging local resources and community networks, Gandhinagar can take significant strides toward building a dementia-aware and supportive society.
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