Our study assessed the current state of knowledge on established modifiable risk and protective factors for dementia in two European countries, i.e., the Netherlands and Germany. We aimed to describe (1) differences between countries in knowledge of modifiable risk and protective factors, (2) differences in older adults’ interest in further information on brain health and openness towards respective eHealth-interventions between countries, and (3) other participant characteristics associated with better knowledge or interest.
Knowledge of risk and protective factors for dementia
In both Germany and the Netherlands, endorsement of risk and protective factors was highest for lifestyle-related behaviors, i.e., cognitive and physical activity and a healthy diet. However, rates of endorsement were higher for each of these factors in the German subsample. Our results indicate the need for more information on the links between cardiovascular and metabolic conditions and dementia in both countries. Controlling for differences in age, sex, education, marital status, self-rated knowledge about dementia and knowing someone with dementia, overall knowledge of risk and protective factors was higher in the…
