Gendered Differences in the Prevalence and Associated Factors of Dementia in Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Precious Adade Duodu, University of Huddersfield
Nutifafa Eugene Yaw Dey, University of Ghana
Joshua Okyere, University of Cape Coast
Bibha Simkhada, University of Huddersfield
Caroline Barker, University of Huddersfield
Warren Gillibrand, University of Huddersfield
Padam Simkhada, University of Huddersfield

Dementia, a global concern, significantly impairs daily functioning. While research on dementia prevalence and associated factors exists in Ghana, the influence of gender remains underexplored. This study estimates gender differences in dementia prevalence and associated factors in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. A cross-sectional design with surveys was used to purposively recruit 800 participants aged 45 years and older. Data were collected using the Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS) and information on various associated factors. Logistic models were estimated for the total sample, males, and females. Analyses were performed using Stata version 14. The overall dementia prevalence was 23.38% [95% CI: 20.44, 26.31], with higher prevalence among females (24.56%) than males (21.31%). Younger age, formal education, and higher household wealth were negatively associated with dementia risk. In gender-stratified models, education and wealth were negatively associated with dementia risk in males, while age and education were significant factors for females. In conclusion, gender differences exist in dementia prevalence and associated factors in Ghana. Interventions must be gender-sensitive, targeting men with lower wealth status and older women.

Keywords: Health and Morbidity, Gender Dynamics, Population Ageing, Older Adults and Intergenerational Relations

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