Why We Must Prioritize Dementia Care in Our Communities -Tonte Abban

According to World Health Organization, dementia is rapidly becoming a major health issue in Sub-Saharan Africa, with over 3.9 million people currently affected, and the number expected to rise to over 14 million by 2050. In Nigeria alone, more than 1 million people are living with dementia, a number that will grow as life expectancy increases and age-related conditions, like stroke, improve survival rates. 

Despite this rise in prevalence, dementia remains widely underrecognized and misunderstood, particularly in rural areas with limited healthcare access.

The increasing number of dementia cases in the region is largely due to the aging population and improvements in healthcare. However, in many African communities, symptoms like memory loss and behavioural changes are often misunderstood. These signs are sometimes dismissed as normal aging or wrongly attributed to supernatural causes, such as witchcraft. These cultural misconceptions prevent early diagnosis and effective treatment, leading to individuals suffering in silence or being misdiagnosed.

 Additionally, the lack of trained healthcare professionals and inadequate healthcare infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa compounds the problem, leaving many without the necessary care.

A critical but often overlooked aspect of dementia care is self-care. In African societies, caregiving for elderly relatives is primarily a family responsibility. While this model offers emotional support and preserves cultural continuity, it can also lead to caregiver burnout, especially when families lack the knowledge or resources to provide adequate care. Furthermore, the stigma surrounding mental health conditions, including dementia, discourages families from seeking professional help, leading to isolation and neglect of dementia patients.

Given the scarcity of formal care systems in many African regions, it is essential to embrace practical self-care strategies. Establishing a structured daily routine, which includes regular meals, physical activity, and proper sleep, can help dementia patients feel more secure and reduce confusion. Engaging in physical activities like walking, gardening, or dancing, which are common in many African communities, can alleviate depression, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall well-being.

 Additionally, mental stimulation through activities such as storytelling, traditional games, and music plays an important role in stimulating memory and improving brain health. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is also vital for managing dementia progression and maintaining cognitive health.

Efforts to improve dementia care are underway, with organizations like Alzheimer’s Disease International working with governments and NGOs to raise awareness, educate caregivers, and integrate dementia care into national health policies. In Kenya, community-based programs have been successful in teaching families how to care for dementia patients and reducing stigma. However, these initiatives need to be expanded across Sub-Saharan Africa to meet the growing demand for dementia care.

Despite progress, significant challenges remain. In rural areas, where healthcare infrastructure is still inadequate, and the high cost of treatment makes it difficult for families to access the care they need, dementia care continues to fall short. Additionally, cultural stigma and financial barriers discourage many from seeking help, leaving patients isolated and underserved.

Tackling dementia in Sub-Saharan Africa requires a comprehensive approach. Governments, healthcare institutions, and international organizations must collaborate to raise awareness, train caregivers, and improve healthcare resources. Prioritizing dementia care is essential for enhancing the quality of life for millions across the continent and ensuring that dementia patients receive the support and care they deserve.

Tamuno Tonte Abban is a healthcare advocate and a registered nurse with over 13 years’ experience with a focus on geriatric care, mental health and learning disability, working to raise awareness about dementia in local communities.