Raising Awareness: The Silent Crisis of Dementia in Kenya

By Emmanuel Busera-Mohammed

In recent years, Kenya has seen a demographic shift. With life expectancy increasing and the population of older adults rising, the country is confronting an inevitable truth: cognitive decline is no longer a far-off concern but a pressing reality for many families. The World Health Organization estimates that globally, around 50 million people live with dementia, and this number is projected to rise to 152 million by 2050. In Kenya, the statistics are just as alarming, with a growing number of elderly individuals experiencing memory loss and cognitive impairment. However, the societal response to this burgeoning issue has been slow and inadequate.

Recent research conducted by the Aga Khan University’s Brain and Mind Institute in Nairobi reveals a staggering lack of awareness about dementia among various stakeholders, including patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. Many individuals suffering from memory loss often attribute their symptoms to aging or spiritual causes, leading to significant delays in seeking medical attention. Tragically, many patients only seek help when their condition has severely deteriorated, often due to financial constraints and a significant shortage of trained healthcare professionals.

The burden of caregiving disproportionately falls on family members, particularly women, who often lack the training and support necessary to provide adequate care. In many households, women juggle multiple responsibilities—caring for children, managing the household, and now shouldering the care of elderly relatives. This unrecognized labor not only takes a toll on their mental and physical well-being but also perpetuates a cycle of neglect for those suffering from dementia. The emotional strain of caregiving can be overwhelming, leading to burnout and a deterioration in the caregiver’s health.

Healthcare professionals, too, face an uphill battle, hampered by insufficient training, inadequate diagnostic tools, and unclear management protocols. The lack of specialized training in dementia care means that many healthcare providers may fail to recognize the early signs of the disease, resulting in missed opportunities for intervention. This toxic combination of stigma, limited resources, and cultural misconceptions creates a perfect storm, causing many individuals suffering from dementia to remain undiagnosed and untreated.

Moreover, community members have expressed skepticism about participating in dementia clinical trials and providing biospecimens, largely due to cultural beliefs and a lack of trust in the medical system. This reluctance further complicates our understanding of the disease and the development of effective treatments. The existing perception that dementia is a curse or punishment has only deepened the stigma, making it even more challenging for affected individuals to seek help.

The implications of these findings are dire. As Kenya grapples with the increasing prevalence of dementia, we must act swiftly to address this growing health challenge. A comprehensive dementia policy is essential—one that includes awareness campaigns to educate the public about the condition, support programs for caregivers, and culturally sensitive approaches to healthcare.

We must foster a dementia-friendly society where individuals and families affected by dementia can access the care they need with dignity. Education is key; by improving public understanding of dementia, we can help dispel harmful myths and encourage early diagnosis and intervention. By enhancing community engagement and advocating for policy reforms, we can improve early detection, support caregivers, and ultimately transform the landscape of dementia care in Kenya.

As we confront the realities of an aging population, let us not turn a blind eye to the silent crisis of dementia. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that those affected receive the care and respect they deserve. Together, we can break down the barriers of ignorance and stigma, paving the way for a more informed and compassionate society. The time to act is now—let us raise our voices and advocate for awareness of dementia in Kenya.