There’s a looming crisis in mental health on a global scale, and dementia is at the forefront. It’s a condition triggered by various diseases that gradually eat away at nerve cells and harm the brain, leading to a decline in cognitive abilities, as per the World Health Organization.
Thanks to remarkable advancements in medicine, science, and technology, people are enjoying longer lifespans. However, this also means that the world’s elderly population is expanding rapidly, heightening the risk of a significant increase in dementia cases.
A recent report suggests that by 2050, the number of people grappling with dementia could soar to around 139 million, compared to over 55 million in 2023, according to the WHO. Moreover, the population of individuals aged 65 and above is projected to double to 2.1 billion by 2050, as highlighted by the World Health Organization.
Dementia poses substantial risks. Currently, it stands as the seventh leading cause of death globally and is a major contributor to disability and dependency among older individuals worldwide. Every year, nearly 10 million new cases of dementia emerge.
Although a cure for dementia remains elusive, research published by the WHO in 2023, alongside efforts from psychologists and researchers, aims to prevent its onset. While aging remains the primary risk factor for dementia, a set of 12 potentially modifiable risk factors have been identified, accounting for roughly 40% of dementia cases globally, according to The Lancet Commission’s 2020 report.
Factors like socioeconomic status and education level can influence dementia onset, particularly in early life. However, several risks are avoidable. As Timothy Singham, a Clinical Psychologist and Adjunct Senior Lecturer at the National University of Singapore, points out, lifestyle choices play a pivotal role. Poor physical exercise, unhealthy dietary habits, inadequate sleep, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking can strain the brain, much like they impact heart health.
Maintaining a healthy body can help mitigate dementia risks, but mental well-being is equally crucial. Individuals with a history of mental health issues throughout their lives face an elevated risk of dementia. However, improvements in mental health over time can reduce the likelihood of dementia in the future.
