Cultural practice and policy in dementia care in Nepal
Authors: Simkhada, B., Thapa Magar, S., Simkhada, P., van Teijlingen, E. and Shanker, S.
Conference: the Ninth National Summit of Health and Population Scientists in Nepal. This annual conference organised by the NHRC (Nepal Health Research Council)
Dates: 11-12 April 2023
Abstract:Dementia is a public health issue. It is a term for several diseases that affect memory, thinking, and the ability to perform daily activities.
People are living longer, and more are living with dementia. Currently 55+ million have dementia worldwide, 60% in low-/middle-income countries (WHO 2023).
There is an increased dependency to families and carers. Lack of awareness, policy and stigma cause huge problems in dementia care. Dementia brings numerous challenges in Nepal i.e. rising cost in health care, changing family dynamics, lack of policies and resources. Aim To explore cultural practices and policy influence dementia care in Nepal. Objectives are to: explore perceptions of dementia in the Nepali community.
comprehend the current dementia care and practices understand cultural practices & barriers around dementia care in the community.
identify the available resource and support mechanism on dementia care in Nepal.
Methds: A qualitative approach using focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews were conducted to explore the cultural practices and policy related issues in dementia care in Nepal. Four FGDs: three with caregivers/family members and one with other stakeholders. Four in-depth interviews: one family care giver and three health care professionals. Thematic analysis of data.
Source: Manual