Dementia awareness among healthcare professionals in Kuwait

Abstract

Background/Aims Dementia is a progressive disease that can lead to functional limitations, poor quality of life, and dependency among older people. Healthcare professionals play an essential role in assisting individuals who have dementia and their caregivers. This research aimed to investigate the level of knowledge about dementia among healthcare professionals in Kuwait. Methods Healthcare professionals from seven public hospitals in Kuwait participated in the study. The participants’ knowledge level was measured using the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale. Results A total of 1005 participants (36.5% males and 63.5% females) from various healthcare occupations were included in this study; physicians (n=120), occupational therapists (n=31), physical therapists (n=107), pharmacists (n=90), and nurses (n=657). The overall knowledge about dementia was generally low, with an overall mean score of 18.99 out of 50 (standard deviation 5.54). Conclusions A lack of knowledge about dementia was identified among healthcare professionals in Kuwait. The findings demonstrate the need for more training to improve knowledge and increase awareness about this disease. Improved knowledge of dementia should lead to improved health care provided to patients living with dementia and support caregivers in managing the disease.