Dr. Edna Bosire, Assistant Professor and Medical Anthropologist at the Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University(far left),Mercy Karanja, Head of Division of Mental Health(left), Prof. Zul Merali, Neuroscientist at the Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University(left) Dr. Sylvia Mbugua, Consultant Neurologist,Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi (far right).
A newly released study on dementia in Kenya has exposed critical gaps in awareness, diagnosis, and care, urging immediate action to address the growing burden of the disease. The study, conducted by the Brain and Mind Institute at Aga Khan University and funded by the Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative, explored the perceptions of dementia among patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and communities. Findings revealed that cultural beliefs, financial constraints, and limited healthcare infrastructure continue to hinder early diagnosis and proper management of dementia in Kenya.
During the study’s presentation, Dr. Edna Bosire, Assistant Professor and Medical Anthropologist at the Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University, underscored the challenges of raising awareness about dementia in the country. She explained that many communities associate the condition with witchcraft and cultural superstitions, leading to stigma and delays in seeking medical intervention.
Dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, is a growing concern in Kenya, yet public awareness remains strikingly low. The study found that many people believe symptoms such as forgetfulness, confusion, and agitation are simply a normal part of aging. Others associate these symptoms with supernatural causes, including witchcraft, curses, or punishment for past misdeeds.
According to Dr. Bosire, such beliefs create a significant barrier to early diagnosis. Many families first seek help from spiritual or traditional healers before turning to medical professionals, often when the disease has already advanced.
"One of the biggest challenges we face in dementia awareness is the deeply rooted cultural misconceptions. Many people don’t understand that dementia is a medical condition and not a result of witchcraft or aging. This stigma not only isolates patients but also discourages families from seeking proper medical care," she explained.
The study, conducted at the Neurology Clinic at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi (AKUHN) and in Nairobi’s informal settlements, found that most dementia patients arrive at hospitals with severe symptoms, making treatment and management more difficult. Additionally, healthcare providers struggle with a lack of specialized training, inadequate diagnostic tools, and unclear care pathways. The absence of national dementia care guidelines further complicates the provision of care.
One neurologist interviewed in the study explained:
"We often see patients when their families are already overwhelmed. Many have been struggling for years, unaware that what their loved one is experiencing is a medical condition that can be managed."
The study also highlighted the immense burden placed on caregivers, the majority of whom are women. Family members, especially wives, daughters, and sisters, are often thrust into caregiving roles without proper training or support. These caregivers take on daily responsibilities such as helping patients with bathing, feeding, administering medication, and managing behavioral changes—all while balancing their own work and family obligations.
Angela Gaithuma, a caregiver who spoke at the presentation, described the immense emotional and physical toll of looking after a relative with dementia. She shared how lonely and demanding the caregiving journey has been, with little to no assistance from external support systems.
"Caring for a dementia patient is a full-time responsibility. You have to be constantly alert, making sure they eat, take their medication, and don’t wander off. I can’t leave the house without worrying. It’s exhausting, and most of the time, you feel completely alone," she said.
Financial strain is another major challenge for caregivers. Many dementia patients require frequent medical check-ups, medications, and specialized care. However, because dementia is not covered under Kenya’s Social Health Authority (SHA), families are forced to pay out-of-pocket for expensive tests like MRIs and PET scans. Those who cannot afford private care often turn to traditional healers or faith-based solutions, further delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.
Prof. Zul Merali, a neuroscientist at the Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University.During the presentation, Prof. Zul Merali, a neuroscientist at the Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University, emphasized the importance of early check-ups and preventive lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of dementia. He urged Kenyans to seek medical advice as soon as they notice signs of memory loss or cognitive decline in their loved ones.
"People should not wait until they are struggling with daily activities to see a doctor. Early screening helps in managing the disease more effectively and improves the patient’s quality of life," Prof. Merali explained.
He also stressed the importance of proper nutrition and mental stimulation in brain health. According to him, adopting a healthy diet rich in vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, combined with regular physical exercise and social engagement, can help delay or prevent dementia.
"A balanced diet, physical activity, and keeping your brain engaged with puzzles, reading, or social interactions can significantly lower the risk of dementia. Prevention is key," he added.
The study concluded with several key recommendations to improve dementia care in Kenya:
Public Awareness Campaigns, Launch nationwide educational initiatives to teach communities about dementia, dispel myths, and encourage early diagnosis.
Healthcare System Strengthening, Train more healthcare providers, equip public hospitals with essential diagnostic tools, and develop national dementia care guidelines.
Financial Support for Patients, Advocate for dementia care to be included in Kenya’s Social Health Authority (SHA) to make diagnosis and treatment more affordable.
Caregiver Training and Support, Establish structured programs to provide caregivers with the necessary skills, financial aid, and emotional support.
Community Engagement in Research, Educate the public on the importance of dementia research and address cultural concerns regarding biospecimen donation.
With dementia cases expected to increase significantly by 2050, experts warn that failure to act now will place a severe burden on Kenya’s healthcare system and families. They call on the government, healthcare institutions, and community organizations to work together in tackling this growing public health crisis.
Dr. Bosire concluded the presentation with a powerful message:
"Dementia is not just a medical issue, it is a social and economic challenge. We need collective efforts from the government, healthcare providers, and the community to ensure that dementia patients and their caregivers receive the support they deserve."
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