Urban Dementia Screening Study Highlights Gaps in Awareness and Early Detection

29th May 2025: Dementia India Alliance (DIA) is a national NGO promoting the cause of dementia in India, in association with Athulya Senior Care - India's Largest Assisted Living Provider, recently concluded a community-based dementia screening initiative across apartment complexes in Bengaluru. The study screened 716 older adults from upper socio-economic backgrounds, offering a glimpse into cognitive health trends within urban, affluent populations.

This initiative comes in the wake of growing evidence of the rising prevalence of dementia in India. The Longitudinal Ageing Study in India - Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (LASI-DAD) has estimated that over 7.4% of Indians aged 60 and above may be living with dementia, with nearly 90% remain undiagnosed due to lack of awareness, stigma and access to trained professionals.

Among the 591 elders aged 60 and above, 12.2% individuals identified with cognitive impairment [HMSE(Hindi Mental State Examination) score =23]. 29.2% men and 25% women had at least one vascular comorbidity, while 30.6% men and 26.4% women had either hearing or vision impairment. These findings highlight the need to address vascular risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and sensory impairments, all of which were commonly observed among participants.

The study found that 56.9% family members failed to recognise early signs of cognitive decline, underscoring how stigma continues to delay timely screening - even in educated communities.

An additional 72 participants had scored 24-26 in HMSE , 59.7% amongst them male. These individuals are considered a vulnerable population and will be followed up with individual and family education to encourage further assessment.

Among 79 individuals aged between 50-59 years, 11.4% had cognitive impairment, of which 66.7% individuals had at least one vascular or sensory comorbidity. This early onset trend further emphasizes the need for preventive strategies and early interventions, even among younger older adults.

Individuals identified with cognitive impairment and those belonging to the vulnerable group will be referred and followed up through DemClinic - the free online memory clinic - for further assessment and personalized risk reduction counselling.

The study findings raise urgent questions about preparedness, access to assessment, and culturally appropriate tools for early detection in India's rapidly ageing population. In addition, the study brings to light the need for more nuanced public education and targeted outreach, especially in urban settings where denial and fear of diagnosis often deter participation.

"The data reinforces what we see in the field-awareness is still low, even among well-educated families. We need multi-layered approaches to ensure people are assessed early and guided to appropriate care and support," said Dr Radha S Murthy, President of Dementia India Alliance.

Dr Srikala Bharath, Consultant, Adult & Old Age Psychiatry Advisor, Dementia India Alliance, said, "Dementia becoming a Public Health Issue in the coming decades, it is imperative that periodic Cognitive Screening of our elderly parents, especially those with risk factors, is our responsibility. Otherwise, we are failing in our roles as offsprings and health care providers.

Dr Naren Rao, Consultant, Psychiatry, Athulya Senior Care, said, "Early detection of cognitive impairment through systematic screening is crucial in managing dementia effectively. This initiative enables timely intervention, leading to early diagnosis and potentially managing to slow disease progression and improving quality of life. The robust community participation is the need of the hour to increase awareness on Dementia and willingness to address brain health proactively."

Mr Srinivasan G, Founder and CEO of Athulya Senior Care, noted, "Through our dedicated Mind & Memory Care services, we focus on offering holistic support to elderly individuals dealing with memory-related conditions. Personalized care, trained professionals and a nurturing environment are the pillars of our approach."

About Athulya Senior Care: Athulya Senior Care is a leading provider of comprehensive elder care services, dedicated to improving the quality of life for seniors through compassionate care, dignity, and respect. With a mission to transform the way elderly care is approached in India, Athulya Senior Care offers a wide range of services that include home care, assisted living, rehabilitation, and special unit for dementia care all tailored to the unique needs of seniors.

About Dementia India Alliance: Dementia India Alliance (DIA) is a non-profit, family carer-centered organization, with a primary focus to provide help and hope to persons with dementia and their families. DIA is dedicated to providing essential services which not only benefit those directly impacted by dementia but also provide much-needed relief and hope to their family caregivers. These are: The National Dementia Support Line (+91 8585 990 990), Online Memory Clinic (www.demclinic.com), Training programs, Support services, Awareness campaigns, Community outreach programs, Educational workshops & Conferences.