What is it about?

This study focuses on the unique challenge of identifying early signs of dementia in older Malaysian Muslims. The research explores the idea that changes in prayer performance among older Muslims may indicate cognitive impairment. The goal is to develop and validate a tool, called the Dementia Solat Score (DSS), that objectively assesses dementia risk based on the performance of routine prayers.

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Why is it important?

This article is important because it addresses a cultural and lifestyle aspect in the context of dementia detection. The simplicity of lifestyle and lower education levels in Malaysian older adults can sometimes delay the recognition of dementia symptoms. The DSS introduces a novel approach, focusing on prayer performance, to provide an early indication of cognitive impairment in the Muslim population.

Perspectives

From a personal perspective, this research offers a promising step towards culturally sensitive and accessible dementia detection in older Muslim adults. The positive correlation between the Dementia Solat Score and clinical assessments indicates its potential as a reliable tool. The high sensitivity and specificity of the DSS suggest that it could serve as a valuable screening method, aiding in the early identification of cognitive impairment in this population. This innovative approach aligns with the cultural context, providing a more nuanced understanding of dementia indicators for healthcare professionals and families alike.

Dr. Mohd Azri Mohd Suan
Ministry of Health Malaysia

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This page is a summary of: Development and validation of Dementia Solat Score for detecting cognitive impairment among Muslim patients: A pilot study, Neurology Asia, December 2021, ASEAN Neurological Association,
DOI: 10.54029/2021npw.
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