9% of the global population is over 64 years old. The United Nations projects that by 2050, this aging population will increase to 16%, meaning one in six people will be over 64 years old. However, despite the increase in life expectancy, as the years go by and as we face the ageing process to which all living beings are subjected, other problems become evident. Pathologies that limit the autonomy of the person and increase dependency, social isolation, and loneliness, are prevalent in an aging population and most concern today's society. Non-communicable diseases such as dementia and other neurological disorders are considered the seventh leading cause of death, and these conditions are the main cause of dependency in older adults, being present in 70% of cases.

This Research Topic aims to stimulate discussion on issues related to ageing and the development of dementia in older people, who in turn require constant care. The particular areas of interest of this topic are: (i) to discuss the functioning of health care for older patients, especially those with dementia; (ii) to discuss the prevalence of risk factors leading to the development of dementia in different countries, populations, and cultures; (iii) to discuss the activities of governmental and non-governmental organizations and services towards prevention, detection, and long-term care for patients with dementia.

With this Research Topic we aim to support a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the situation of older people with dementia or who are at risk of developing dementia. Potential themes for contributions include (but are not limited to):

• early detection of dementia;
• prevention of dementia;
• solutions to help care for people with dementia;
• legal regulations regarding care for people with dementia;
• systemic or non-systemic solutions for the prevention, diagnosis, or care of people with dementia.

We also encourage submissions on disparities in diagnosis and care for patients with neurological conditions (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease), with a focus on how social determinants of health and access to care impact detection and outcomes in diverse populations. Submissions proposing models of care that integrate personalized medicine, digital health, and interdisciplinary collaboration will enrich this discussion.

We welcome these article types: Brief Research Report, Case Report, Clinical Trial, Data Report, General Commentary, Hypothesis and Theory, Mini Review, Opinion, Original Research, Review

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Dementia and Long-Term Care

Topic Coordinator