Psychological, Social, and Economic Difficulties in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) in a Population in Southern Colombia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31052/1853.1180.v30.n2.42613Keywords:
Alzheimer's disease, Anxiety, Depression, Economic difficultiesAbstract
Introduction: Population aging is a care priority in public health, especially age-related dementia disorders, with Alzheimer's disease (AD) being the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. Psychological and behavioral symptoms are present in the majority of patients with AD, affecting all areas, including functionality. AD patients need assistance with daily activities and medical care, leading to severe psychological and economic stress for both the patient and the caregiver.
Objective: To identify the psychological, social, and economic difficulties of patients with AD in a population in southern Colombia in 2021.
Methodology: This observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study included 30 AD patients at any disease stage who met the inclusion criteria and participated voluntarily between May 1 and September 30, 2021. Caregivers were interviewed using a structured survey to collect personal, economic, social, and psychological information about the AD patient.
Results: The study population was characterized by an age range of 70-79 years, predominantly male, and low socioeconomic status. Late-onset AD was present in 40% of patients. The most common psychological difficulties were depression (23%), followed by anxiety (17%) and memory issues. Regarding social difficulties, 43% only had social ties with their caregiver, and 73% had low educational levels. Economically, 53% had low monthly incomes and required significant family financial support to manage the disease. Early-onset AD patients had higher depression rates, whereas late-onset patients experienced more anxiety.
Conclusion: The study concludes that patients with AD face psychological challenges, such as depression in early stages and anxiety in late stages, comorbidities, and mental functioning issues, especially in memory and mobility, which increase cognitive decline. Identifying social and economic difficulties is essential for disease management and safeguarding patient and caregiver well-being.
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