Which population groups are at risk and why?
This section will focus on core epidemiological issues that take account of fixed risk factors (such as age, gender, ethnicity, family history) and modifiable risk factors (such as behaviour). The wider determinants of health (such as housing, transport and environment) are also considered.
Age
Individuals aged 65 and over are at most risk due to age-related risk such as brain changes over time4.
Gender
Women are statistically more at risk of developing dementia than men. 65% of people living with dementia are women5. Women tend to live longer, there may be biological and hormonal contributing factors5, genetic factors have a stronger impact on women than men6 and social and historical factors play a role6.
Socioeconomic status
People from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are at greater risk of developing dementia through a combination of lifestyle, environmental and healthcare access factors4.
Qualifications
Individuals with lower levels of educational attainment are at significantly higher risk of developing dementia7.
Mental health
Depression and anxiety are significant mental health risk factors for developing dementia8, 9.
Ethnicity
Black, Asian and other ethnic minority communities are at higher risk of developing dementia compared to the White British population10 due to increased likelihood of experiencing modifiable risk factors and social and systemic barriers11.
Prisoners
Prisoners (particularly older prisoners) are at increased risk of developing dementia due to accelerated aging within prison, higher prevalence of risk factors, low diagnosis rates and environmental factors12.
Sexual Orientation
There is limited evidence linking sexual orientation to increased biological risk of developing dementia. Research does suggest LGBTQ+ individuals may face higher risks due to social and structural factors such as higher rates of mental health issues, social isolation and loneliness, barriers to healthcare and stigma13.
Vulnerable Children
There is no direct scientific evidence indicating that vulnerable children are at high immediate risk of developing dementia. Early-life risk factors (adverse childhood experiences, poor educational attainment, chronic stress and mental health issues and health inequalities14) may increase susceptibility in adulthood.