Awareness of dementia is important because people from South Asian backgrounds are at a higher risk of developing dementia. While the reasons for this are not fully understood, certain cultural and social factors, as well as higher risks of other health conditions like diabetes and stroke, may play a role. Additionally, people from minority ethnic communities are often underserved in terms of access to health information, research and support. 

 

Reports have highlighted delays in seeking and receiving a dementia diagnosis for people from South Asian backgrounds, as well as worse long-term health outcomes. Furthermore, few people from South Asian backgrounds participate in medical research studies, which means that research findings may not fully represent these groups. 

 

Many people do not understand what dementia is, why it happens, or what can be done about it. This lack of understanding can lead to: 

• Later diagnosis and reduced access to treatments 

• Less support for people and families affected 

• Not taking steps to reduce the risk of getting dementia 

• Not volunteering to take part in research studies