Perceptions of dementia amongst the general public across Latin America: a systematic review

Farina, N., Suemoto, C. K., Burton, J. K. , Oliveira, D. and Frost, R. (2021) Perceptions of dementia amongst the general public across Latin America: a systematic review. Aging and Mental Health, 25(5), pp. 787-796. (doi: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1725738) (PMID:32048522)

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Abstract

Introduction: Perceptions of dementia are important determinants of support, treatment and care received in the dementia community. Understanding these perceptions are vital for regions such as Latin America, where there is a rapid increase in people living with dementia. The aim of this study is to review and synthesise the general public’s perceptions of dementia in Latin America, what factors are associated with these perceptions, and how they differ between countries in the region. Methods: Searches were completed across five databases (Medline, SCOPUS, PsychINFO, SciELO, and WoS). Studies were required to capture attitudes or knowledge of dementia in the general public residing within Latin America. English, Spanish and Portuguese search terms were used. Results were synthesised narratively. Results: About 1574 unique records were identified. Following lateral searches, de-duplication and screening, six articles (four studies) met the inclusion criteria for this review. All the studies were quantitative research from Brazil (median, n = 722). There was evidence of a limited to moderate knowledge of dementia, though a significant minority had negative or stigmatising attitudes. Only higher levels of education were consistently associated with better attitudes and knowledge of dementia in the region. Conclusion: There is a need for more in-depth research about attitudes of the general public across Latin America, particularly outside of São Paulo state, Brazil. There appears to be a greater need to raise awareness of dementia amongst less educated Latin American groups.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:We would like to acknowledge the British Council Researcher Links Programme for networking NF, CKS, JB and RF. We would like to acknowledge the STRiDE project (Global Challenges Research Fund, UK Research and Innovation) for linking the work of NF and DO.
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Burton, Dr Jenni
Authors: Farina, N., Suemoto, C. K., Burton, J. K., Oliveira, D., and Frost, R.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
Journal Name:Aging and Mental Health
Publisher:Taylor and Francis
ISSN:1360-7863
ISSN (Online):1364-6915
Published Online:12 February 2020
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2020 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor and Francis
First Published:First published in Aging and Mental Health 25(5): 787-796
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy

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