Knowledge, perceptions and practices of adults towards dementia at a selected hospital in Lesotho
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Date
2023-10-28
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Recent Advances in Clinical Trials
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to determine knowledge, perceptions and practices towards dementia in adults
seeking health services at a selected hospital in Lesotho.
Method: The descriptive quantitative research design was used in conducting the study. A sample of 52
participants were selected using convenience sampling method. Data was collected using pre-tested semi-
structured questionnaire written in both English and Sesotho languages. Data was analyzed through the use of
Microsoft Excel, presented on frequency tables, pie charts and bar charts.
Results: The study results revealed that there is dearth of knowledge towards dementia (27%), majority of
participants (n=26) had insufficient knowledge towards dementia. On the perception, 26.9% strongly perceived
dementia as witchcraft and 34.6% of participants disregard dementia as part of the aging process. As much as
majority of participants (63.5%) reported that demented people should be hospitalized, 13.5% of adults still
believed that demented people should seek prophetic help.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that there is need to raise awareness regarding mental health such as dementia
so that affected individuals and families may be supported accordingly
Description
Keywords
Adults, attitudes, dementia, knowledge, perceptions